The case involving a horse being dragged will come to a resolution in September 2023.
The shocking video surfaced in October 2022 with Northumberland OPP and Animal Welfare Service stating an investigation was taking place.
The 34-second video shows a horse being dragged behind a vehicle, then a horse by a barn with blood on the ground. The person who took the video stated the horse was “literally spurting out.”
Solstice Pecile, age 23, of the Township of Cavan Monaghan was charged with causing distress to an animal under Section 15 (1) of the Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act.
Emily Reardon who owned the horse previously, took ownership of the horse after the incident and has started a petition regarding Ezra (name of the horse).
The petition is titled “Demand Justice for Ezra: Set a Precedent for Horse Welfare in Ontario and Canada.” that was started on August 14, 2023 and has over 2,600 signatures.
Reardon said Ezra suffered “unimaginable cruelty at the hands of her supposed caretaker.”
“I sold my beloved horse to what I believed was a professional trainer and loving forever home. However, the reality turned out to be far from that.”
Reardon said the video of Ezra being dragged was, “not only morally reprehensible but also goes against our shared responsibility as humans towards animal welfare. Horses are intelligent beings capable of experiencing pain and fear just like any other living creature. It is our duty to protect them from such heinous acts and ensure their well-being.”
Stating it’s “crucial” to set a precedent for the welfare of hoses in Ontario and Canada she has started the petition.
“By holding individuals accountable for their mistreatment of horses or any other animals under their care, we send a clear message that such acts will not be tolerated within our society.”
In the petition Reardon says that The Criminal Code of Canada states that anyone found guilty of causing unnecessary suffering or harm to an animal can face imprisonment up to five years.
The Provincial Animal Welfare Services Act of Ontario states that any offence that causes or permits distress to an animal can result in up to two years in prison, a fine up to $130,000, and a lifetime ban on animal ownership.
The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty Animals Act (OSPCA) also outlines the legal responsibilities of animal owners and caretakers, emphasizing the need for proper care, protection, and humane treatment.
“We must ensure that these laws are enforced to their fullest extent in Ezra’s case. By doing so, we not only seek justice for her but also establish a precedent that will safeguard the welfare of horses and all animals across Ontario and Canada.”
“Together, let us show our commitment to protecting these magnificent creatures from any form of cruelty or abuse.”
The case is set for resolution on September 13, 2023.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
