AR-News: (Canada) Man charged after botched neutering of Golden Retriever

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Pet owner charged after botched neutering
Golden Retriever back with owner


CURTIS RUSH
STAFF REPORTER THESTAR.COM

A Mississauga man has been charged with cruelty to animals after a "do-it-yourself" neutering of a two-year-old golden retriever went so badly the dog required emergency surgery.

Investigators from the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) have laid charges in connection with the May 2 incident. The maximum penalties range from a fine of $2,000, to six months in jail. 

SPCA spokesperson Brian Pemberton said a man paid another man $100 to perform the procedure in the garage of a home near Dundas St. W. and Mavis Rd. A veterinarian charges between $150 to $300 for the procedure.

Some hours later, the accused took the dog to a vet for emergency surgery, paying at least another $150 to repair the damage, according to Pemberton. 

"Suffering of this kind is extremely disturbing," said Judy Marshall, chief executive of the Ontario SPCA. "I can't imagine why anyone might think it could be justified by the prospect of saving a little money."

The SCPA is still investigating and looking for the person who was paid to do the neutering, said investigating officer Sarah Jones. Jones said the dog's owner met the man in a local park while walking his dog and said he knows nothing about him.

"We would urge anyone with information to contact the Ontario SPCA," she said. "Obviously, if this is happening, pets are at great risk."

The animal recovered and has been returned to the owner. Since he took the dog to the vet for treatment the SPCA has no grounds to remove the animal, though he could lose the dog if convicted.

James Heath, 53, of Mississauga, is charged with permitting unnecessary pain and suffering to be caused to his dog. 

He is scheduled to appear in Brampton court June 3. 

Anyone with information is asked to call the Ontario SPCA at 1-888-668-7722, ext. 338.