Animal rights activists protested outside the Provincial Court of B.C. in support of Captain, the German shepherd who died after being beaten and left in a dumpster, during a court appearance for the dog's owner Thursday morning.

Brian Whitlock was set to appear in court on charges unrelated to the dog's death, but only his lawyer attended the proceeding. Advocate groups Justice for Captain and PETA rallied outside the courthouse asking for tougher animal cruelty laws. 

The SPCA recommended an animal cruelty charge in Captain’s case in July, but Crown lawyers have asked for additional information regarding potential witnesses and one expert witness in the dog’s death.

The name of the suspect will not be released unless the single count of causing unnecessary suffering, pain or injury to an animal is approved.

The charge carries a maximum sentence of five years in jail and a lifetime ban on owning animals.

Captain was found in a dumpster on July 18, emaciated, covered in blood and bruises and unable to walk, and died the next day. A neurologist who examined the dog said he appeared to be quadriplegic.

The disturbing story struck a cord with many and $76,000 was raised in support of the SPCA’s animal abuse investigations.