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Hanover, ON, (March, 2009)
Beverley Tomalin and Sandra Tomalin of Meaford have been charged under the Criminal Code of Canada with 12 counts of animal cruelty following the seizure of approximately 100 dogs of various mixed small breeds, including Bichons, Pekingese, Papillons and Lhasa Apso types. The Tomalin sisters have been charged with one count of wilful neglect of dogs and 11 counts of causing unnecessary suffering by failing to provide adequate medical attention.
A call was received from a concerned citizen regarding the care of the animals; based on the information provided a warrant was obtained. The Ontario SPCA investigated the residence on December 1, 2008. The dogs were found with severely matted fur, covered in feces and lacking medical care. Some of the dogs required immediate medical intervention and were examined by a veterinarian at the Ontario SPCA York Region Branch. The residence lacked proper ventilation and had extremely poor sanitation. The investigative team had to leave the residence frequently due to the ammonia in the air. The dogs were later forfeited to the Ontario SPCA, and many have since been adopted from the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society, Lincoln County Humane Society and Ontario SPCA York Region Branch.
Beverley Tomalin and Sandra Tomalin are scheduled to make a first appearance in court on May 14, 2009 in Owen Sound. If convicted, the accused may face a prohibition from owning animals, up to 18 months in jail and a maximum fine of $10,000.
Media Contacts
Kristin Williams
Public Relations Manager, Ontario SPCA
1-888-668-7722 ext 305
kwilliams@ospca.on.ca
Darren Grandel
Ontario SPCA Senior Inspector, Western Region
1-888-668-7722 ext 315
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