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Metchosin couple faces animal cruelty charges

A Metchosin couple faces charges after the SPCA seized three dogs and one cat from their property.

A Metchosin couple faces charges after the SPCA seized three dogs and one cat from their property.

SPCA officers removed Shiva, a German shepherd, poodles Chompers and Mr. Tibbs, and Bubba a brown tabby cat from Dave and Beverly Bickerdike’s home, while executing a warrant in  August. Charges were laid in December.

“Crown counsel took a while to look over the charges,” said SPCA officer Const. Lynsay Bailey, adding the charged were not released publicly until the Bickerdike’s were notified.

“The German shepherd had a painful hind end, Mr. Tibbs was severely emaciated and had bad fleas, Chompers had painful skin and teeth issues,” said Bailey.

Mr. Tibbs had to be euthanized.  The other three animals were adopted out.

“It’s discouraging, our primary goal is for the animals to remain with their family,” Bailey said. “We’ve been there several times over several years, they are fairly familiar with the process. Animal cruelty charges are the last step in a long process. It’s very rare that jail time is given.”

If convicted, the Bickerdikes could face up to five years in prison, a fine of $75,000 and a lifetime prohibition of owning or having pets.