SPCA cruelty investigators act much like the police force to protect animals and pets.

Here’s how a typical case unfolds:

1. Complaint. Someone sees an animal that looks like it could be neglected or in distress and phones it in.

2. Investigation. An animal protection officer checks the situation. If there’s a problem the constable works with the owners to relieve the distress. The officer can also issue an order requiring improvements, setting up a series of follow-up checks to ensure compliance. Relevant evidence is collected to determine whether charges should be laid under either the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act or the Criminal Code.

3. Seizure. In cases where owners won’t or can’t take steps to end the neglect or abuse, officers can seek a court order allowing them to seize the animals. In many cases animals are voluntarily surrendered.

4. Charges. After gathering evidence, officers send a report to Crown counsel asking for charges. The prosecutors decide whether there’s enough evidence that a conviction is likely and whether prosecution is in the public interest. If so, charges are laid.

5. Court. If the accused pleads not guilty, the case can go to trial. Testimony of vets who examined the animals is usually crucial in getting a conviction.

6. Penalties. If convicted of causing distress or willfully causing cruelty to animals, the maximum penalty is six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000 – along with a possible prohibition from owning animals.

7. Rehabilitation. Seized animals are nursed back to health at SPCA shelters before being made available for adoption.

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