The accused was charged with injuring an animal contrary to section 445 of the Criminal Code and wilfully causing unnecessary suffering to an animal contrary to section 445.1 of the Criminal Code.
A small dog named Angel was brought to an emergency veterinary clinic with severe injuries including extensive bruising, internal bleeding, and severe head trauma.
The veterinarians concluded the injuries were consistent with multiple repeated blunt force trauma and could not have been caused by a cat attack as the accused claimed.
The accused had exclusive care of the dog while the owner was away.
The court found the accused guilty on both counts based on circumstantial evidence including his opportunity, his demonstrated frustration with the dog, his false explanation of the injuries, and his failure to seek veterinary care.
