Unlicenced Puppy Seller Convicted by Court
An Animal Protection Officer of the New Brunswick SPCA received information that Ms. Nadia Dubé of Edmundston was selling puppies on Facebook without having a Pet Establishment Licence on February 5, 2023.
“All dog breeders in New Brunswick must have a valid Pet Establishment License. This annual license ensures that dogs are born and raised in a safe and healthy environment and that Canadian Veterinarian Medical Association kennel standards are followed. Every Pet Establishment that breeds and sells dogs, boarding kennels for dogs, pet stores, and animal shelters receive their license to operate after their facility has passed an annual inspection by New Brunswick SPCA”, said Tony Porter, Chief Animal Protection Officer, NBSPCA
The Animal Protection Officer (APO) visited Ms. Dubé’s home and noted a foul odour of urine and feces. The Officer also noticed that her two dogs were skinny, and their ribs, backbone, and hips were protruding and could be felt.
A total of four dogs were seized and the APOs took them to a veterinarian for an assessment. The veterinarian gave the dogs a body score of 1−2÷9 and reported that they were underweight, had long nails, fleas, and were filthy. One dog was emaciated from long-term malnourishment and neglect.
All seized dogs were taken to an animal shelter in the surrounding area. At the shelter, they were thoroughly cleaned and put on a rehabilitation program. Within a couple of weeks, the dogs were looking energetic and cheerful and had gained weight due to the nutritious and healthy diet provided. They were placed for adoption by the animal shelter and eventually found their new forever home.
Ms. Nadia Dubé was charged under the SPCA Act of NB and Criminal Code for failing to provide food, operating a Pet Establishment without a Licence, and failing to produce animals for Inspection upon Demand. On September 19, 2023, she was convicted by Edmundston Court and fined $1030. Ms. Dubé was also prohibited from possessing dogs for a period of three years.
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
