Barrie police are appealing to the public for assistance as they and animal welfare authorities investigate a case of neglect including a dog that had life-threatening injuries.
Last Friday, officers responded to a report of a number of dogs and a cat being kept in two vehicles parked at a hotel on Bryne Drive.
Police were also contacted by a citizen the next day who was also worried about the well-being of these animals, and officers contacted animal welfare services. Some of the animals were determined to be ill and in need of immediate veterinary care. Three dogs went to the OSPCA Barrie Animal Centre and one, a German Shepherd, required emergency surgery to remove a foreign object from its stomach.
The female owners of the animals have been evasive and have manipulated the kindness of local agencies and church organizations, according to police, and have received supplies and financial support in what investigators allege appears to be nothing more than a scheme based upon a number of lies.
It appears the females have left Barrie without paying the surgical costs that saved the life of the German Shepherd, which is now in the care of the Barrie OSPCA.
Police say they have determined the women are 54 and 23 years of age, and are mother and daughter, travelling together in what is described as a 2008 beige Dodge Caravan and a 2003 gray/silver Toyota Highlander with a small utility trailer.
Investigators have licence plate information and know the suspects are from the Sarnia area.
The women are wanted for offences under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services and the Criminal Code of Canada.
Right now, police say the primary concern is for the health and well-being of the other animals they are travelling with which includes a number of recently born puppies.
If anyone sees these females or the vehicles that they are travelling in, you are encouraged to contact the Barrie Police at 705-725-7025, ext. 2657 or your nearest police service.
Banner image supplied - Barrie Police Service
