SPCA release:

Lorraine Bain, 68, and Herb Bain, 72, from Plymouth, have been charged with permitting an animal to be in distress, contrary to section 26(2) of the Animal Protection Act of Nova Scotia. The couple is scheduled to appear in Yarmouth Provincial Court on September 16, 2024.

On June 26, 2024, a dog in need of medical care was found by a member of the public on the side of the road and reported to the Nova Scotia SPCA. A Special Constable with the Nova Scotia SPCA Enforcement department picked up the dog and brought the dog to the Yarmouth shelter.

Upon intake at the shelter, the dog was medically assessed by a veterinary technician. Due to his condition, arrangements were made to have a Nova Scotia SPCA veterinarian examine the dog. The dog was displaying evidence of distress from a number of medical conditions. Following an investigation, the charge was laid against the Bains.

The Bains appealed the seizure of their dog. After both parties presented evidence, the Nova Scotia Animal Welfare Appeal Board ruled the seizure was reasonable and carried out lawfully under the Animal Protection Act of Nova Scotia.

The Nova Scotia SPCA investigates complaints of animal cruelty and neglect across the province. All concerns and complaints submitted to the SPCA are kept confidential. You can report acts of cruelty by calling the SPCA toll-free at 1-888-703-7722, e-mailing animals@spcans.ca, or filling out an online form at www.novascotiaspca.ca/reportcruelty.

About the Nova Scotia SPCA Enforcement Team

The Nova Scotia SPCA Enforcement Department operates province-wide vested with the authority from the Nova Scotia Department of Justice, to provide enforcement under the Animal Protection Act and the Criminal Code of Canada. Inspectors investigate, and where necessary, lay charges, conduct animal seizures, or issue orders to persons suspected of animal cruelty and neglect. The Nova Scotia SPCA Enforcement Department employs Special Constables appointed under the Police Act of Nova Scotia.

About the Nova Scotia SPCA

Proudly following no-kill principles, the Nova Scotia SPCA is a registered charity that helps companion animals in need. Last year, approximately 16,000 pets were helped through animal rescue, progressive programs, and rehoming opportunities. The Nova Scotia SPCA does not receive any government funding for their shelters, so the SPCA relies on community support to help care for local pets in need. To learn more visit www.novascotiaspca.ca.