NBSPCA investigation results in sentencing in Belledune animal cruelty case

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 23, 2026

Fredericton, N.B.— The New Brunswick SPCA (NBSPCA) is sharing the outcome of a significant court case to highlight the importance of animal protection services in New Brunswick and the consequences of animal cruelty and neglect.

In March 2025, NBSPCA animal protection officers responded to a complaint involving an alleged illegal breeding operation in Belledune. Following an investigation, officers seized 42 Shih-Tzus and one cat from the property. The animals were found living in conditions that raised serious concerns regarding their health and welfare. The animals have since been adopted with the help of the NBSPCA’s shelter partners.

Joyce Ann Robertson and Joan Elizabeth Robertson were subsequently charged in Bathurst Provincial Court with multiple offences under both the Criminal Code of Canada and the provincial SPCA Act. While the accused initially entered not guilty pleas, both changed their pleas to guilty on December 17, 2025.

On April 16, 2026, each accused pleaded guilty to two offences under the SPCA Act, including failure to provide adequate care and maintaining animals in unsanitary conditions. They were fined $500 per offence, for a total of $1,000 each. 

The accused also pleaded guilty to a Criminal Code charge of causing unnecessary pain and suffering to animals. As a result, each received a 15-year prohibition from owning, having care or control of, or residing with any animal or bird, with the exception of a currently owned registered service animal.

“This case underscores the serious consequences of illegal breeding and failing to provide proper care to animals,” said Don Metcalfe, the NBSPCA’s Chief Animal Protection Officer. ​“April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month, which serves as a reminder that animal welfare is a shared responsibility. The public plays a critical role by reporting suspected animal cruelty and neglect, which allows our officers to investigate and take action.”

Both individuals also received a 12-month supervised probation order with conditions including:

  • Keeping the peace and being of good behaviour
  • Appearing before the court as required
  • Notifying the court or probation officer of any changes in name, address or employment
  • Contacting Mental Health Services within five days to schedule an appointment, undergoing a mental health assessment and following recommended treatment
  • Following any other counselling or therapy deemed necessary by a probation officer
  • Allowing up to three unannounced visits by an NBSPCA animal protection officer
  • Complying with all directions from the animal protection officer and/​or veterinarian regarding the standard of care for the service animal

Both individuals were further ordered to pay restitution to the NBSPCA in the amount of $6,848 each, for a combined total of $13,696. 

Metcalfe said that animal protection officers provide education and other resources whenever possible to prevent similar situations. This includes sharing reminders with the public about key considerations when getting a new pet.

“New Brunswickers should always check for a Pet Establishment Licence and Veterinary Certificate of Health when purchasing a pet,” he said. ​“By asking the right questions, pet owners can be confident that the facility meets a high standard of care, and their new pet is in good health. If anything doesn’t seem right, we encourage the public to contact the NBSPCA.” 

More information about recent animal protection court cases can be found online. 

About New Brunswick SPCA

Founded in 1881, New Brunswick SPCA (NBSPCA) is the only provincewide organization mandated to enforce animal protection laws. A dedicated team of 18 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 provincewide 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. 

Media Contact: Lesley Rogers, lesleyr@​nbspca.​ca, 506−458−8208