Vancouver man charged with animal cruelty following SPCA investigation
March 7, 2005. For immediate release. Crown Counsel has charged a Vancouver resident with causing distress to animals under the BC Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act. Jim Reynolds of Vancouver was charged after SPCA animal protection officers removed four severely neglected guinea pigs from his home. "One of the animals was already dead, one was in critical condition, and a third was extremely thin and dehydrated and needed immediate veterinary care," says Eileen Drever, Senior Animal Protection Officer for the BC SPCA. "The fourth animal was in slightly better condition but was obviously suffering from neglect."

Drever says she is pleased that Crown Counsel is taking animal abuse and neglect seriously, even when it involves small animals. "Generally, people have more sympathy for a dog or cat, but cruelty and suffering is unacceptable for any animal life."

If convicted Reynolds faces a maximum fine of $2,000, up to six months in jail and a prohibition on owning or keeping animals.

Further information:
Eileen Drever, Senior Animal Protection Officer, BC SPCA: (604) 834-7854;
Lorie Chortyk, Community Relations Manager, BC SPCA:
(604) 647-1316, 1-800-665-1868, or 830-7179 (cell);