Three of four animals that were mistreated by a Metchosin couple have new homes.
But Dave and Beverley Bickerdike won’t be having dogs in their home for at least five years, after pleading guilty recently to animal cruelty charges levied by the B.C. SPCA in January. The five-year ban, announced this week by the SPCA, also saw the Bickerdikes banned from owning animals of any other kind for two years.
They must also pay $500 in fines plus pay restitution to the SPCA for costs incurred in caring for the animals.
The charges, which fall under the Criminal Code of Canada and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, resulted from an investigation into complaints that animals on the couple’s property were being neglected. Animal protection officers had looked into similar complaints in the past.
In January they found a German shepherd, two poodles and a tabby cat in various states of poor health.
“All of the animals required immediate veterinary treatment for untreated problems, ranging from serious mobility issues, pain management, severe periodontal disease and skin issues,” SPCA Const. Lynsay Bailey said in a release.
One of the poodles was in rough shape and deteriorating, and was euthanized on the advice of a veterinarian. The other three animals received veterinary care at the SPCA’s Victoria shelter and were adopted out to new homes.
editor@goldstreamgazette.com