One of the Amish owners of a controversial dog kennel near Millbank has pleaded guilty to animal cruelty and operating a kennel without a licence.
Menno and Viola Streicher first attracted attention last October, when the Ontario SPCA laid a number charges of animal cruelty against the couple, who do not use electricity.
A follow-up inspection of their barn by the Township of Perth East prompted officials to revoke the Streichers’ kennel licence, citing evidence of poor lighting and ventilation, overcrowding and a strong smell of ammonia.
More than 30 dogs were housed in the kennel, which continued to operate after the licence was revoked.
In total, the Streichers were facing nine charges relating to Perth East bylaw infractions and nine charges relating to treatment of animals.
In exchange for Viola Streicher pleading guilty to all counts, all charges against Menno Streicher were dropped.
Viola Streicher will have to pay a $7,500 fine and is barred from owning more than two dogs during a two-year probation stint.
A number of animal rights protesters were outside the Stratford courthouse Wednesday as the Streichers’ case was heard.
Neither the Streichers nor their defence lawyer would comment on the case.
