Animal cruelty and neglect is on the rise in Oxford County. OSPCA Inspector Rebecca Tanti tells Heart FM that "We're finding that the seriousness of the cruelty going on in Oxford and Elgin County is increasing steadily." The latest case where charges have been laid involved an East-Zorra-Tavistock couple who tried to neuter their dog at home using an elastic band. The case ended in the death of the dog, and the owners are now facing charges of causing and permitting distress to an animal, and failing to provide medical attention. Their first court appearance is set for next week. That follows a case last week of a young offender in Ingersoll being charged with killing a 6-week-old kitten. Tanti talks about what's behind the increase they're seeing in animal cruelty and neglect. "I think a lot of it has to do with the economy. I think what's happening is that people are not able to afford themselves, let alone their animals." Tanti adds a lack of education in what people are required to do in order to take care of their animals is also an issue they're trying to address. She urges people to seek veterinary attention if they believe their animal needs it, and they can be charged for failing to do so. With the rise in the number of cases, the OSPCA is putting out an appeal for donations of cash, Canadian Tire money, food and water dishes, leashes and collars, blankets and other animal-related items, but not food. Tanti says "We're a charitable organization despite the fact that we enforce provincial and federal legislation." Because the OSPCA does not have an office in Oxford County, donations can be dropped off at the Beale St. beer store in Woodstock.
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