CORNWALL, Ontario – A Cornwall man has been banned from owning a pet for 15 years after being found guilty of six counts of animal cruelty.
Kurtis Clarke was found guilty last month on two counts each ofcausing distress to an animal, permitting distress to an animal and failing to provide veterinary medical attention.
In a press release the Ontario SPCA said on July 25 Clarke called the agency claiming that his dog was vomiting, had diarrhea and was lethargic.
Ontario SPCA Officers made arrangements to have the dog immediately transported to the agency’s local branch. The dog was deceased upon arrival.
An Ontario SPCA Officer later attended Clarke’s residence to speak to him about the deceased dog. Clarke did not answer but a foul smell of dirt and blood, typically associated with canine parvovirus, was observed. There was also blood smeared on the door. Officers also heard another dog barking inside the residence.
On July 28 Ontario SPCA officers received a voicemail from Clarke stating that his second dog was now vomiting and had bloody diarrhea. He stated that he had no money to treat the dog and wanted to surrender it to the Ontario SPCA.
Upon arrival to collect the dog, it was deceased. Clarke informed Ontario SPCA officers that neither of the dogs had been vaccinated, and admitted he had not sought medical treatment for either of them.
Clarke was sentenced to a 15-year prohibition from living with, caring for or owning any animals. He also received two years probation in which he must report a change of address to the Ontario SPCA and must allow Ontario SPCA Officers access to his property to ensure compliance. Clarke was also fined $1,200.
“The Ontario SPCA reminds pet owners that if you have concerns for the welfare of your animal, there are alternatives other than allowing an animal to go without adequate care,” said senior inspector Steve Toy.
