An investigation into the death of a dog that was found wandering a southeast neighbourhood with severe injuries has led to charges against three people.
A severely neglected Bulldog cross was brought to a local emergency veterinary clinic on September 5, 2014 with facial and body wounds. The dog was named Ruby by clinic staff and was emaciated with infections in her eyes and ears.
The dog passed away from its injuries during surgery and investigators put out a plea to the public to help identify her owner.
A search warrant was issued on an address of interest in the case and police seized 11 animals that were suffering from varying levels of neglect.
On February 27, 2015, Janice Piper, Michelle Caswell and Jamie O’Leary, were all charged under the Animal Protection Act.
Piper and O’Leary are both charged with respect to four animals, including Ruby’s case and Michelle Caswell was charged with five counts with respect to seven animals.
Investigators say O’Leary was previously charged and convicted with an Animal Protection Act offense.
“It is satisfying to see a conclusion to this investigation which sees those responsible for Ruby’s severe neglect held accountable. This was one of the worst cases of neglect we have seen, in that Ruby was suffering from so many serious issues. Ruby was an exceptionally sweet dog whose tail wagged to the very end, despite the pain that she was suffering. This case was a truly collaborative effort between Calgary Humane Society’s Protection and Investigations department and Calgary Police Service. The strength of this relationship makes Calgary the wrong place to practice cruelty to animals. CHS is also grateful to the members of our community who assisted in the investigation by providing information leading to the charges,” said Brad Nichols, Senior Manager, Cruelty Investigations.
All three will appear in court March 31, 2015.
