An Esquimalt resident has been charged with animal cruelty following a BC SPCA investigation. Hubert Henry is charged under both the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and the Criminal Code of Canada for badly neglecting his female pit bull. The one-year-old dog was tethered outdoors without access to adequate food, water or shelter until it was seized by SPCA special constables on May 18 and taken into SPCA care.
“Skylar is an amazing dog,” says SPCA Constable Lynsay Bailey. “She was living in the worst possible circumstances, but today she is happy, healthy and very much loved in her new adopted home.”
Bailey says the SPCA will be recommending that Henry, who was also found guilty of animal cruelty in 2009 for the neglect of two pit bulls, receive a lifetime ban on owning or having custody of animals. The two dogs seized earlier by the SPCA have also been adopted into loving homes.
Henry makes his first court appearance at the Victoria Court House on Aug. 26. If convicted of the charges he faces up to five years in jail, a fine of up to $75,000 and a ban on owning or having custody of animals.
Photo credit: (above) Skylar (present day) photographed by Unleashed! Pet Portraits
The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a not-for-profit organization reliant on public donations. Our mission is to protect and enhance the quality of life for domestic, farm and wild animals in B.C.