STOUFFVILLE, Ontario, July 25, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Ontario SPCA and Dog Tales have worked together to create an option for the dogs seized in a criminal investigation of an alleged dog fighting operation in Chatham, Ontario.
The court accepted a joint submission that sees the dogs transported to Florida to take part in an enrichment program under the direction of Aimee Sadler, Director of Training and Behavior at Dogs Playing for Life. Aimee Sadler has also agreed to assume ownership of the dogs.
The dogs have been under the care of the Ontario SPCA for almost the last two years by Order of the courts. While in the Society’s care, the dogs have received daily enrichments, specialized care and human interaction in a purpose-built facility.
“The dogs are getting an extraordinary opportunity due to the resources that Dog Tales is providing. We have been pleased to work in partnership with them on this outcome and hope to work with them on other initiatives. Our role in this case has always been to provide the balance between the welfare of these dogs, the safety of other animals and public safety. We need to remember that dog fighting is a criminal act,” says Deputy Chief Jennifer Bluhm, Ontario SPCA.
It is important to remember these dogs range in behaviours from extremely aggressive to unpredictable. These dogs were bred to fight and trained to kill, and a wagging tail is not always a clear sign these dogs are safe for human or dog interaction.
The dogs have undergone two expert assessments. The court has ordered one of the dogs (Dog 9) be euthanized as it has been deemed dangerous under the Dog Owners’ Liability Act.
The Criminal Case is still proceeding. Additionally, the charges laid under the Dog Owners’ Liability Act are still before the court with a pending court date of August 24, 2017.
Ontario SPCA and Humane Society:
Protecting animals since 1873, Ontario SPCA is Ontario’s Animal Welfare organization. A registered charity comprised of close to 50 Communities.
Since 1919, when Ontario’s first Animal Welfare legislation was proclaimed, the Ontario SPCA, with the help of its Communities, has been entrusted to maintain and enforce Animal Welfare legislation. The Act provides Ontario SPCA Agents and Inspectors with police powers to do so.
Ontario SPCA provides leadership in animal welfare innovations including introducing high-volume spay/neuter services to Ontario and opening the Provincial Education and Animal Centre.
OntarioSPCA.ca
Adopt • Learn • Volunteer • Donate
Charitable Business Number 88969 1044 RR0002
CONTACT: MEDIA CONTACT Alison Cross Ontario SPCA [email protected] 905-853-2108