Cruelty Charges Pending in Delta After Dalmatian is Bludgeoned and Thrown into Fraser River

March 25, 2004. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE. Charges of animal cruelty are pending against a Delta resident after a seven-year-old Dalmatian was violently bludgeoned on the head and thrown into the Fraser River to die. Miraculously the dog survived and was found 10 days later, weak and seriously injured, by a local resident who called the Delta SPCA for help. The SPCA officer rushed the Dalmatian to a local veterinary hospital where the dog underwent extensive surgeries for his serious head wound. As a result of its own investigation and information obtained from the Delta Police the SPCA plans to present its case, along with recommendations for cruelty charges, to Crown Counsel shortly. If convicted, the dog's alleged attacker could face a maximum $2,000 fine, up to six months in jail and a prohibition from owning or having custody of an animal.

More than two months after the vicious attack 'Roanie' is recovering in a SPCA foster home and is looking for a permanent loving home. Despite his traumatic experience and his long and painful recovery, he is a wonderful, gentle dog who has captured the hearts of the SPCA staff and the veterinary staff who have cared for him. He can be energetic and a bit goofy at times, but is loving and obedient and will do just about anything for a dog treat! He loves going for walks, long afternoon naps and playing with his tennis ball.

The SPCA is seeking the public's support to help off-set the costs of Roanie's veterinary care, which totalled more than $2,000. If you can help, please contact the Delta SPCA at 604.946.7848 or donate securely online by clicking here.

Further information:
Michelle Rodgers, Branch Manager, Richmond/Delta Branch: (604) 830-1147;
Lorie Chortyk, Community Relations Manager, BC SPCA:
(604) 647-1316, 1-800-665-1868, or 830-7179 (cell);