Dog left on Scarborough balcony rescued

A dog that was left on a feces-filled seventh-floor balcony in Scarborough has been rescued, Toronto police tell CityNews.

Despite claims from residents that the dog had been outside for days, without food or water, police said Tuesday the dog was unattended for 24 hours and had plenty to eat and drink.

Still, it was enough to lay a fine against the person who lives in the apartment at 410 McCowan Rd., who was looking after the pet for a friend. That person, who has not been identified, was fined $205 for failing to provide a suitable outside enclosure.

Appalled residents at the Scarborough apartment complex say they helplessly watched for “days” and accused the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of ignoring their calls.

However, the OSPCA told CityNews in an email it was first notified at 4:20 p.m. on Monday – and police rescued the dog shortly after midnight.

At no time was it an “emergency situation,” the OSPCA said, noting that the dog did have food and water.

Residents had told CityNews the dog was increasingly emaciated and seen pacing, and that animal agencies ignored their calls and gave them the run around.

When the call came in, OSPCA spokesperson Alison Cross said, “We informed the caller that the next available officer would respond as our officers were all on the road responding to other calls.

“Our dispatch informed the caller that the police could also be contacted.  The Ontario SPCA did assign the case to an Officer last night and the investigation is ongoing,” Cross said.

The OSPCA says it has now launched a full investigation, but is asking for your help.

It appears the dog has been passed to various residents in the building and they aren’t sure where it is right now. If  you know something that may help the OSPCA call 1-888-668-7722.