The BC SPCA is investigating an incident where a dog was left tethered to a vehicle in direct sunlight in a busy Metro Vancouver Costco parking lot.
On May 5, a Vancouver man was shopping at the Burnaby Costco when he spotted a distressed dog tied to the rear of a Range Rover at around 3:30 p.m. He described the dog as “panting,” “frightened,” and “skittish.” The animal was tethered near the vehicle’s muffler, with no access to shade or water.
A City of Burnaby animal control officer responded and waited for the dog’s owner to return, issuing three bylaw violation notices totaling $300 in fines for the incident.
The BC SPCA confirmed it had received reports about the case and has opened an investigation, working closely with Burnaby Animal Control for further details. The City of Burnaby has also stated that its animal control division is reviewing all available evidence.
Following the release of this report, a new video emerged on social media showing the same vehicle and license plate, with a dog tethered in the same manner. The video, filmed on January 7, 2025, shows the dog trembling and being left in similar distress. Burnaby officials confirmed they are aware of the video and are investigating the matter.
Animal rights lawyer Rebeka Breder, who viewed the video, condemned the treatment of the dog, calling it cruel. She praised the quick response from Good Samaritans and the fines issued, though she expressed a desire for higher penalties. Breder believes this type of behavior qualifies as cruelty, citing the lack of adequate care, shelter, and basic necessities for the animal.
While Breder does not expect criminal charges to be filed in this case, she warned that if similar incidents occur in the future, legal action may become necessary.
“This is a clear case of distress caused to an animal,” Breder said. “If people are not prepared to take on the responsibility of a pet, they shouldn’t have one.”
The investigation remains open, with authorities coordinating with other jurisdictions to gather more information.
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