THUNDER BAY - A Thunder Bay man found guilty of several animal cruelty charges after abandoning a dog in unsanitary conditions is now prohibited from owning pets for five years.
Cory Toal (Lacroix), 41, was found guilty on Oct. 12 of permitting distress to an animal and failing to provide the care necessary for general welfare.
In addition to the five year prohibition, a Justice of the Peace also sentenced Toal to two years of probation and a fine of $500.
According to the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, a bulldog cross was found abandoned in unsanitary conditions inside a rental unit last November. There was no heat on inside the unit and the dog did not have access to food or water.
The landlord brought the dog to the Thunder Bay and District Humane Society and attempts to locate the owner were unsuccessful.
An investigation was launched by Ontario SPCA officers and Toal was subsequently located and charged.
“Pets are not objects to be left behind when you no longer want them. You have a responsibility to ensure the proper and humane care of that animal,” said Lynn Michaud, senior inspector, Ontario SPCA. “If you are in a position where you can no longer care for your animal, contact the Ontario SPCA or your local humane society to discuss re-homing options.”
Anyone who wishes to report suspected animal cruelty is asked to contact the Ontario SPCA’s province-wide hotline at 310-7722, or call police.
