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Lantzville man charged in high-profile animal cruelty case

Dec 11, 2017 | 9:54 AM

NANAIMO — A Lantzville man has been criminally charged after his dog was nearly drained to death by blood-sucking fleas.

The BC SPCA announced Gary Kenneth Bob is charged with one count of animal cruelty under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, after his senior terrier Rascal lost roughly 85 per cent of his blood and required a life-saving blood transfusion.

Since then, the BC SPCA said Rascal has recovered and is now thriving in a new home. 

In a news release, BC SPCA senior animal protection officer Tina Heary said pet owners are strongly encouraged to consult their veterinarian about flea prevention, which costs considerably less than treatment.