R v Seddon 2005 BCPC

Robyn Seddon has entered a guilty plea to Count 2, which is the charge under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, specifically Section 24(1), and she acknowledges that on or about March 18, 2004, at or near Quesnel, in the Province of British Columbia, as a person responsible for an animal or animals, namely 56 small breed dogs and 6 chickens, she caused or permitted the animal to be or continue to be in distress. 

Two order forms had previously been issued for the specific care of animals under her care. The Crown claims that she did not allow the SPCA to follow up on those orders by inspecting or checking in on the animals, which is a violation of Section 15 of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals legislation in this province. As a result, the 56 dogs and 6 chickens were imprisoned under Section 11 of the Act.

Two large breed dogs had skin inflammation, which was thought to be caused by cold, wet, and unsanitary conditions. The smaller dogs, which were kept in an outbuilding, were described as being kept in overcrowded pens with poor sanitation. It was claimed that there was no bedding available for the larger dogs, and the ground beneath the shelter was wet and cold. There were no bedding or roosting areas for some of the chickens. The Crown claims or claims that the floors and shelves where the chickens were kept were contaminated with urine and feces. There was no bedding or water in the nesting areas. Two chickens were found in outbuilding number one, and four chickens were found in a different location in that building. Because all of the birds were in distress, they were taken into custody and properly cared for.

Ms. Seddon was found guilty, but mental health and life conditions factored into the suspended sentence and probation of one year issued by the judge.