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Cruelty/bylaws
Investigation of cruelty to animals is our most important role. Inspectors and Agents of the Society have full police powers to investigate reported incidents of abuse and neglect. Last year, approximately 80% of the complaints were resolved through educating the pet owner. Cruelty to animals is a criminal offence.
The law states that provision of suitable and adequate food, water, care and shelter for your pet are essential. If a person is found guilty of Cruelty to Animals that person may be subject to a fine and/or imprisonment as well as being prohibited from owning animals. Rescue a mistreated animal by reporting all cases of abuse or neglect.
The City of Kawartha Lakes municipal code regulates many aspects concerning the keeping of animals. To learn more about specific rules/regulations or to report an infraction, contact the Humane Society of Kawartha Lakes.
Complaints are confidential and can be made by calling our Animal Services Department at (705) 878=4618
How to recognize animal cruelty
Look for these common signs of neglect or intentional cruelty witnessed by Ontario SPCA investigators:
Wounds on the body.
Severely overgrown nails (often curling under) or hooves (often curling upwards).
Patches of missing hair.
Extremely thin, starving animals with ribs or backbone protruding.
Infected eyes that have been left untreated.
Limping.
Animals who are repeatedly left alone without food and water. Often they are chained up in a yard.
Animals who have been hit by cars and have not received veterinary attention.
Animals who are kept outside without shelter in extreme weather conditions. Tropical birds especially cannot tolerate cold temperatures.
An owner kicking, hitting or physically abusing an animal.
Animals who cower fearfully or act aggressively when their owners approach.
Severe flea or tick infestations left untreated.
Animals left in a car on a hot or cold day.
Animals crammed into tiny cages in overcrowded conditions.
Abandonment (often when pet owners move or by unprofitable farmers).
Reptiles with dull, darkened skin, tremors, gaping mouth and excessive saliva, or experiencing difficulty climbing.
Aquatic and amphibious creatures kept in tanks with murky water.
Illegal trapping of wild animals or animals left for extended periods in traps.
Excessive scratching of the head area, shaking of the head and dirt or discharge in eats indicative of a possible ear infection.
Chronic diarrhea or vomiting.
Animals kept in dirty conditions including being forced to stand in their own urine and excrement.
Swellings, such as tumors or abscesses, left untreated.
Rabbits with a severe head tilt.
Slaughter by untrained individuals.
What you can do.
Report suspected animal abuse by calling the Ontario SPCA at 1-888-ONT-SPCA (668-7722), Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), your local Ontario SPCA Branch, affiliated Humane Society or police.
