A 31 year old woman has pled guilty to animal cruelty charges tied to a stray dog found in St. Catharines over the summer.
August 2016, workers picked up a Staffordshire Bull Terrier on Haig Street in St. Catharines
The Ontario SPCA launched an investigation since the dog, named Einstein, was in very poor condition - suffering from infection and malnutrition after having not eaten for a number of weeks.
While the veterinarian recommended euthanasia, the owner refused. An exploratory surgery then led to the discovery of a mass and he was euthanized.
31 year old Sarah Coffell pleaded guilty to failing to provide adequate and appropriate medical attention for her dog, fined $305 and ordered to provide restitution to the Lincoln County Humane Society in the amount of $342.25.
During this investigation the LCHS says it spent over $1,000 to care for Einstein.
“Failing to provide appropriate care is unacceptable – pet owners must provide their pets with proper care for all their needs” said Kevin Strooband, Executive Director, Lincoln County Humane Society. “If owners need assistance they are encouraged to call their local humane society or SPCA for advice” he continued.