Occurrence #: BA14050379
Date: Friday, October 17, 2014 – 5:00pm
On Friday October 17th 2014 at approximately 5:00pm Barrie Police were called to attend a business in the south end of Barrie for a complaint of animal cruelty.
Police learned a post on social media alleged a dog was being kept in a small cage, hit and being sprayed in the face with Windex.
The complaint was posted on a social media site at approximately 2:00pm.
As the owner took his dog out for a walk, he was confronted by a crowd of people who had read the post and now gathered in front of his store.
A confrontation ensued and Police were called.
The parties somehow arrived at the conclusion the owner was not treating the dog properly and took the dog from the owner, placing it in a vehicle awaiting Police arrival.
Police investigated the matter and came to a reasoned conclusion the social media post was not accurate.
The dog is a show dog and was found to be in good health and had been sprayed with a de-odourizer.
Police confirm the animal is safe and not in any danger. However, to ensure the matter is fully investigated, Barrie Police contacted the SPCA who will follow up on the matter.
Police are continuing to gather video of the incident and have spoken with witnesses.
Police are asking the public to not attend the store address to confront or annoy the owner as there is no concern for the dogs safety.
Any acts of intimidation, harassment or mischief will be fully investigated by Barrie Police according to law.
Police remind residents to exercise caution and common sense when reading social media posts.