A 48-year-old woman from Minden Hills, ON, has been convicted of animal cruelty under the Ontario SPCA Act following an investigation that led to the removal of four horses in her care.
On January 4, 2018, Shauna Hie was convicted in a Kawartha Lakes Provincial Offences Court of permitting distress to an animal. She was sentenced to 10-year prohibition on owing or caring for any equine animals and was ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution to the Ontario SPCA.
On March 2, 2017, Ontario SPCA officers attended a residence in Minden Hills after receiving a concern about the welfare of horses on the property. Officers observed four horses confined to a small, fenced area without any access to water, hay or other feed. Officers noted that the horses appeared thin and that the hip bones of one horse were clearly visible, protruding from underneath a blanket the horse was wearing.
A veterinary examination determined all of the horses were in poor body condition, with one considered emaciated. They were also found to be infested with lice and suffering from untreated wounds and poor hoof care. At the recommendation of the veterinarian, the horses were removed by the Ontario SPCA in order to provide them with the necessary care and treatment required.
The horses were surrendered into the care of the Ontario SPCA and, after being returned to good health, three have since found loving homes. A remaining horse and her foal, born in the care of the Ontario SPCA, will soon be available for adoption.
“With resources available to help people who are unable to care for their pets, there really is no excuse when it comes to neglecting to care for your animals,” says Alison Green, Senior Inspector, Ontario SPCA. “There will be consequences under the law if you fail to provide appropriate care for your animals or if you fail to take steps to alleviate an animal’s suffering.”
To report animal cruelty, call the Ontario SPCA’s province-wide dispatch centre at 310-SPCA (7722).
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