"This was an unusual case that had a positive outcome," said Lynn Michaud, Senior Inspector, Ontario SPCA.

A 30-year-old man and 36-year-old woman from Ottawa have each been found guilty of two counts of animal cruelty under the Ontario SPCA Act, following an investigation relating to the neglect of a dog in their care.

The Ontario SPCA received a report from the Ottawa Police Service back on on February 22 of last year, concerning conditions inside an apartment in the city's east end. A "Puggle"-type female dog that had been reported missing in September of 2016 was discovered by officers at the residence and found to be in need of veterinary attention.

The dog was returned to her rightful owner, who immediately took the animal to a veterinarian. An examination revealed the dog was severely starved and infested with fleas. She also had an infection on her right hind paw that caused the pad of her paw to fall off.

The dog was treated and has since recovered.

On March 22 of this year, Charlie Lapointe and Chantel Stoneburner were each found guilty in an Ottawa Provincial Offences Court of permitting distress and failing to provide adequate and appropriate medical attention. The Justice of the Peace sentenced them to a 10-year prohibition on owning, caring for or residing with animals. They were also fined $500 each and were required to pay $349 in restitution to the Ontario SPCA.

"This was an unusual case that had a positive outcome," said Lynn Michaud, Senior Inspector, Ontario SPCA. "The individuals who were responsible for this dog's neglect faced justice for the neglect of this dog. Happily, she is fully recovered and back in the care of her loving family."

To report animal cruelty, contact the Ontario SPCA's province-wide animal cruelty hotline at 310-SPCA (7722).