Bathurst Court fines and bans a woman from owning animals for 10 years
The New Brunswick SPCA received a complaint on November 23, 2021, that Brigitte Thibodeau, owner of five dogs and four cats was not providing any food and water and keeping her pets in unsanitary conditions at her home in North-Western, New Brunswick.
On entering the house, the Officers found an overwhelming smell of urine and feces. There were three dogs, one cat, and a dead hamster in a cage. The house was in a mess with garbage, urine, and feces all over the floor.
All the animals were seized and taken to a Veterinary Hospital for examination. Fecal samples were taken to check for parasites and one dog tested positive. The cat was treated for an ear infection and a wound on its neck. All animals had long overgrown nails and one dog had a nail that grew into the pad of its foot.
The Officers transported the seized animals to an animal shelter. Here, they were meticulously cleaned, treated for fleas, and well cared for.
A few weeks later when the animals were in good physical condition, the animal shelter placed them for adoption. In a month’s time, they were adopted by families who loved them unconditionally.
Tony Porter, Chief Animal Protection Officer, NBSPCA said “Our Animal Protection Officers investigate allegations of animal abuse and cruelty and enforce animal protection laws. For us, animal welfare is of prime importance and we work with other stakeholders to get animals out of difficult situations ”.
Charges were laid on Ms. Thibodieu under the SPCA Act of New Brunswick and the Criminal Code for failing to provide food, water, and medical care, and keeping her pets in unsanitary conditions. The Bathurst Court sentenced her on March 6, 2023, with supervised probation of 10 months, a fine totaling $1500, and banned her from owning animals for a 10-year period. She was required to pay the fees incurred by the NBSPCA towards veterinarian fees amounting to $1569.34.
About the New Brunswick SPCA
Founded in 1881, New Brunswick SPCA (NBSCPA) is the only province-wide organization mandated to enforce animal protection laws. A dedicated team of 15 Animal Protection Officers is vested with the authority under the SPCA Act of New Brunswick to investigate and, if necessary, lay charges, seize animals, or recommend court orders to persons suspected of abuse and cruelty to animals.
The NBSPCA is a registered charity that exists to provide province-wide leadership in the humane treatment of animals. We enforce relevant legislation, ensure shelter for neglected or abused domesticated animals and agricultural animals, and provide public education and advocacy to empower New Brunswickers to help animals live long and healthy lives.
To learn more visit www.nbspca.ca
