Two charged in Bilbo Waggins case

As Bilbo Waggins recovers at the Nova Scotia SPCA, two Yarmouth residents have been charged in the dog’s case.

An officer in the Yarmouth, N.S. area noticed the dog running along the side of the road in late June. He was in such poor condition, police launched an investigation that led to the charges.

Jennifer Hurlburt, 36, and Matthew Hart, 34, have been charged with permitting an animal to be in distress under the Animal Protection Act. They will appear in Yarmouth provincial court on Sept. 15.

Jo-Anne Landsburg, chief provincial inspector with the Nova Scotia SPCA, said Bilbo is doing well so far.

“He’s gained a significant amount of weight,” Landsburg said on Thursday. “His hair has started to grow back, he’s looking very well.”

The SPCA appealed to the public earlier this month for donations to help fund the treatment Bilbo needed. While they are unable to give a total tally, they said the donations have helped cover everything from intensive medical treatment to nutritious, high-calorie food.

“We really want to thank all the generous animal-lovers who have donated to help cover the cost of his surgeries and care,” provincial development co-ordinator Taylor Mundy said in an email. “Bilbo Waggins has felt their love and support from all throughout Canada.”

Landsburg said while the enforcement side of the SPCA receives government funding, the shelter does not.

“That’s why it’s very important that they are able to reach out to the public in situations like this and generate some support for animals that are in dire need and requiring long-term veterinary care and support,” she said.

Bilbo has a long way to go but once staff feel comfortable with his condition and he’s feeling up to it, he will go through a behavioural assessment to determine the most appropriate home for him, Landsburg said.

“He’s a very approachable, friendly dog,” she said.

Landsburg also wants Nova Scotians to know that the SPCA can help them if they can’t care for an animal.

“It’s really important that the public know that, regardless of the situation, whether it’s medical needs, a person can’t afford just the general care for the dog, we would urge anyone to reach out to the SPCA and contact us to see about surrendering an animal to us. And there is no fee for that, across the province.”