Animal lovers gathered at a west Ottawa dog park on Saturday night, spreading awareness of how to treat pets after recent animal cruelty cases in the area.
The small group said their goal is to keep growing and become more vocal, talking about what can be done to treat animals better.
"Just a lot more awareness, harsher punishments, and just education," said Shawna-Lee Harrison at Bruce Pits. "Educating young kids and making them just more aware of the issues and teaching them how to treat animals."
"Just think. Use your heart," said organizer Judy Pierce. "You know animals have souls too."
Recent court cases have brought more awareness to their cause – last week an Ottawa woman was sentenced to ten months in jail for starving her dog.
There was also the raid of a kennel in Shawville, Que. last month that seized over 500 dogs and made national headlines.
"The animal protection laws need to be a lot stiffer," said Jenn Dingledine.
"I think it's terrible," said Sarah Kidder of animals that have been hit, burned or neglected. "I love dogs, I don't understand how anyone can do anything like that to dogs."
Last year almost 2,000 animals were removed from their homes by the Ontario Humane Society after their owners were investigated for animal cruelty.
With a report from CTV Ottawa's Katie Griffin
