R v Hague, 2015 BCPC 237363-1

BC SPCA received a video of an individual kicking a Doberman puppy multiple times in an elevator. There was no physical injury to the dog after the abuse took place, however, a behavioural test was conducted and was able to confirm the dog experienced emotional distress. This video, after being submitted to the BC SPCA, was uploaded to the internet and viewed on an international level. This incident led to Hague resigning from his CEO position at ‘Centreplate’, offering a public apology, and promising to donate $100,000 to an animal welfare group.

Hague pleaded guilty and received a $5000 fine, and a 3 year prohibition order. This was a joint submission sentence.

This case is significant as it is one of the first cases where a person is convicted based on only “emotional distress” of an animal.