27 Dogs Were Rescued From An Ontario Home & A Woman Was Charged With Cruelty To Animals

A large group of animals has reportedly been rescued from dire conditions after police responded to a call from a worried passerby.

According to the OPP's Norfolk County Detachment, the rescue occurred on May 1 at around 11 a.m. when officers responded to an animal complaint at Norfolk County Road 19 in Townsend.

"A good Samaritan was driving along Norfolk County Road 19 East, when they noticed animals in the ditch," the OPP reported. "The driver stopped and subsequently contacted police after failing to locate the owner."

Upon arriving at the address, officers contacted Animal Welfare Services to assist in the investigation after locating several animals inside the residence.

Animal Welfare Services removed approximately 27 dogs, five cats, one pig, and one guinea pig from home. Three horses and two donkeys were also recovered from the property by investigators and volunteers.

OPP also released a video via Twitter to address the harrowing event and express thanks to those who helped.

"I also want to thank everyone that assisted with this investigation — from the Norfolk County Fire Department down to the individuals that assisted [in] removing the animals from the home. We just want to say thank you," OPP Acting Sgt. Ed Sanchuk said.

63-year-old Jackie Parkin of Norfolk County was charged with "cruelty to animals — unnecessary pain, suffering or injury."
Parkin is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Simcoe at an unnamed date.

"The investigation is continuing and further updates will be provided when new information becomes available," the report concludes.

This article’s right-hand cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.