Valleyview, AB – In a large-scale operation‌ coordinated with numerous animal welfare organizations, the RCMP have laid charges against two northern Alberta women following the seizure of over 300‍ animals found in distressing conditions. the investigation, which unfolded‌ in the communities ​of Marie reine ‌and the MD of Smokey River, highlights the critical importance of animal welfare and the power of collaborative rescue efforts.

According ⁣to RCMP reports, the ‌animals were‍ found in varying states of physical and mental distress, with “many deprived ‌of basic necessities, including veterinary care and humane​ living conditions.” The seizure involved a​ diverse range of animals, the specific types of which have not yet been released.

Sheryl Woods, 69, of Marie Reine, and Cheryl‍ Bastien, 67, of the MD of smokey River, are each ‍facing three charges:

• Willful neglect of animals ⁢(Criminal Code Offence)
• Causing needless suffering (Criminal Code Offence)
• Permitting⁣ animals to be in distress (Animal Protection Act)

Both ⁣women are scheduled⁣ to appear in Peace River court on December 15th.

The prosperous‍ operation was a testament‌ to‌ inter-agency⁣ cooperation. ⁤Valleyview RCMP Constable Dayna Serafin ⁤expressed ⁤gratitude for ‍the “coordinated efforts of the Canadian ‍Animal⁣ Task⁤ Force, the Alberta ‍Animal Rescue Crew Society and more than 16 animal welfare agencies from across Alberta.” Serafin⁤ also acknowledged the​ support of Valleyview town Councillor⁤ Ken ‌Wittig and several local businesses.

“Animals are crucial to all of us,” Constable Serafin⁢ stated,”and together,we were able to immediately place these animals into safe ​environments where they are receiving the care they ⁢need.”

The Alberta Animal Rescue⁢ Crew Society (AARCS) has published a detailed account of the rescue and a extensive list of the 16 assisting agencies‌ on their blog. AARCS and other organizations are currently​ providing ongoing medical attention, rehabilitation,⁢ and fostering for the rescued animals.

Evergreen ​Context: Animal ​Welfare⁢ in Canada

Animal welfare is governed by a complex interplay of federal and provincial legislation in Canada.While the federal government sets‍ standards for the transportation and humane slaughter ⁢of animals, the primary responsibility for animal‍ protection rests ⁣with ⁢the provinces and territories. Penalties for‌ animal cruelty and neglect can ‌range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the ‍offense and the specific legislation violated. Organizations like‍ the Canadian​ Animal Task⁣ Force ⁣play a vital role in ⁣coordinating large-scale ​rescues and advocating for​ stronger ⁣animal protection laws.