A social media firestorm in response to an alleged case of animal cruelty in Nova Scotia's Pictou County has garnered the attention of the RCMP, who are warning against vigilante justice.
The SPCA removed a dead dog and six dead puppies from a home in Sylvester, N.S., on Valentine’s Day. They also removed another dog that was seriously injured.
A 55-year-old man is facing animal cruelty charges in connection with the case, which has prompted outrage on social media.
The RCMP say are concerned about threats of violence and retribution posted online, and they’re warning the public that vigilante justice will not be tolerated.
“People have been making threatening comments towards the person who is accused of this offence and we need them to know we prefer that they not take matters into their own hands,” said Nova Scotia RCMP spokeswoman Cpl. Jennifer Clarke.
“We do understand they're upset, but if they were to be charged for doing or saying anything related to how they feel about this incident, we wouldn't want that to happen … We are continuing the investigation and we would certainly ask for peoples’ patience as we get through this.”
Police have not released the name of the accused, but it is circulating on social media. CTV News has learned another man with a similar name living in the area is also receiving threats, even though he is not connected to the case.
Meanwhile, the SPCA says the injured dog that was removed from the home is fighting for her life, but is gaining strength each day.
“She's getting lots of love,” said Jo-Anne Landsburg, the SPCA’s chief inspector for Nova Scotia.
But Meeka isn't out of the woods just yet. The animal is at an undisclosed location receiving 24-hour care.
She is still receiving IV fluids, treatment for her eye, pain management, and, because she was emaciated, she is on a re-feeding schedule of small amounts of food several times per day.
“Normally, the SPCA doesn't see physical abuse to animals, but what we do see is more neglect, so cases like this are rare,” Landsburg said. “However, they come up from time to time and it’s unfortunate.”
The community of Pictou County continues to rally in support of the little dog. Supporters are encouraging people to attend the accused's court appearance in Pictou, N.S., on April 15.
A campaign aimed at bringing changes to Nova Scotia's Animal Protection Act has also been launched online in response to the case.
The Change.org petition is calling for harsher punishments for those who commit crimes against animals.
With files from CTV Atlantic’s Marie Adsett.
