SYLVESTER, N.S. — UPDATED FEB 18: The dog removed from a Sylvester, Pictou County home on Feb. 14 following animal cruelty complaints is recovering.
"The RCMP and the SPCA advise the public the dog that was found injured inside the home and was transported to a veterinary clinic for treatment is in serious condition but is responsive and recovering, and we are hopeful for her full recovery," a release stated. "Police also wish to advise the public that vigilante justice will not be tolerated."
Cpl. Jennifer Clarke said they included the reminder about vigilante justice because of the amount of comments police have seen online by people who are upset by the case.
"They may be frustrated, but it’s not a good idea to take matters into their own hands," Clarke said.
A protest in relation to the incident called "Justice for Meeka" has been scheduled for the Pictou Courthouse on April 15th from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. to protest for stricter animal cruelty charges "to those who commit heinous crimes against the innocent in our community."
In addition to the injured dog, six puppies and another dog were found dead at the property, according to other reports.
The RCMP and the SPCA are continuing the investigation.
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Police have arrested a Pictou County man and charged him with animal cruelty.
On Feb. 14, Pictou District RCMP responded to a report of cruelty to animals at a home located on Maple St. in Sylvester, Pictou County.
When police arrived at the home, they found an injured dog inside. The dog was in need of medical attention and was transported to a veterinary clinic for treatment, an RCMP police release. The 55-year-old man was later arrested and faces charges of Causing Damage or Injury to Animals or Birds and Causing Animals or Birds Unnecessary Suffering. He was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in Pictou Provincial Court on April 15.
Cpl. Jennifer Clarke said they are not releasing details at this time on the nature of the injuries.
Joanne Landsburg, Chief Provincial Inspector with the Nova Scotia SPCA said the dog is in their custody and is receiving medical attention.
She said they are hopeful the dog will make a full recovery.
The RCMP and the SPCA are continuing to investigate this incident.
