Woman charged over pup's injuries

A Calgary woman has been charged after a Doberman puppy was abandoned with critical injuries outside a veterinary clinic.

The dog was found in a bloody kennel in November 2009. He was severely underweight, dehydrated and had head injuries as well as a broken front leg. The puppy was in such bad shape veterinarians could only guess he was three months old.

Peace officers with the Calgary Humane Society launched a six-month investigation, which led to charges against Cynthia Guan, 22, the agency said on Tuesday.

She's been charged with causing or permitting an animal in her care to be in distress under the Animal Protection Act of Alberta, which carries a maximum fine of $20,000 and a lifetime ban on owning animals.

Guan was also charged with abandonment or willful neglect of an animal in distress under the Criminal Code, which carries a maximum fine of six months in jail, a $5,000 fine and a lifetime ban on owning animals.

'Despite what was clearly a horrible ordeal, Mike is still ready to trust, to love and to enjoy life.' Patricia Cameron, Calgary Humane Society

The humane society received overwhelming support and donations from the public after the puppy's case was publicized. The animal has been named Mike.

"It truly demonstrated that Calgarians will not stand for animal abuse and cruelty or neglect," said Patricia Cameron, executive director of the society.

Mike, now eight months old, has recovered from the neglect and surgeries required to repair a broken shoulder. He now lives in a long-term foster home.

"Despite what was clearly a horrible ordeal, Mike is still ready to trust, to love and to enjoy life," says Cameron.

Guan will be in court May 27.