REGINA — The Southey RCMP is currently investigating a person dragging a dog outside of their vehicle.
The incident occurred on Wednesday near Highway 6.
Camille Labchuk, an animal rights lawyer, said there are clear offences in a video posted to social media under Saskatchewan's provincial animal protection law and federal laws.
“Section 445.1 under the [federal] criminal code says that it's an offence to cause unnecessary pain, suffering or injury to an animal,”Labchuk said.
She said the video shows all three offenses being displayed.
“Under that offence, the fine could be up to $10,000 and the individual could face up to two years in prison.”
She mentioned a history of animal abuse could suggest a higher sentence or fine for a person charged.
Vice versa, a person experiencing a mental health crisis or difficult financial circumstances could mean a lower sentencing.
Cases where dogs are being dragged from a vehicle aren’t uncommon, said Labchuk.
A Hamilton, Ont., man was fined $2,000 back in July after a video surfaced of him dragging his dog down a sidewalk.
Labchuk said it’s also possible for courts to impose prohibition orders for possessing or owning an animal for a certain period.
The RCMP is asking anyone with information to contact police by dialing 310-RCMP.
Additionally, information can be submitted anonymously by contacting the Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
