When Willow was brought in to the BC SPCA last year, her stomach only contained rocks and soil.
Animal welfare officials believe that’s what the young husky ate to survive, after they say it was abandoned and left to wander the streets of Maple Ridge, east of Vancouver.
The dog was skeletal: weighing just 15 kilograms, she should have been at least 8.5 kilograms heavier for her age and breed, and could not stand on her own. The dog’s body was assessed at a condition score of one, the lowest possible.
The owner was identified as a young student at Simon Fraser University, and on Monday – one year and one day after Willow was saved – the 24-year-old was charged with two counts of animal cruelty.
Yu Lin now faces two years in jail, a lifetime ban on animal ownership and a maximum fine of $75,000, if convicted.
“This wasn’t a situation of finances, intelligence, and ability. It’s just neglect and cruelty,” Marcie Moriarty of the BC SCPA told CTV Vancouver, adding she hopes he will be banned from owning animals in the future.
“He has clearly demonstrated a lack of ability to care for an animal.”
Willow spent six weeks being rehabilitated before being adopted into a caring home, where she is now “thriving,” says Moriarty.
After gaining more than 20 pounds, she’s now a happy-go-lucky pup whose favourite activities include car rides and swimming.
Willow was also honoured with the award for animal courage at the 2015 BC SPCA awards.
“She’s a good dog,” said Moriarty. “She’s a fighter.”
