A Vancouver Island man has been banned from owning an animal for five years for allowing his terrier-cross dog to suffer from a near-fatal flea infestation.
Gary Kenneth Bob of Lantzville was sentenced last week and has also been fined $250 for nearly killed the dog.
The senior dog, named Rascal, was suffering from severe blood loss due to thousands of fleas when he was seized by BC SPCA special constables last year.

The dog passed away earlier this year from natural causes. When SPCA found him, he was also malnourished, weak and barely able to stand, having lost close to 85 per cent of his blood.
His emaciated body was so anemic that he needed immediate blood transfusions and other medical attention to save his life, said Marcie Moriarty of BC SPCA.
Rascal was rushed to Island Veterinary Hospital for emergency veterinary treatment including life-saving blood transfusions.
Thankfully the blood transfusions stabilized his condition and the feisty terrier made a full recovery after several months in SPCA care.
Rascal was fostered during his recovery by a caring couple who have served as long-time volunteers at the SPCA Nanaimo branch.
When he was ready for adoption, they decided they couldn’t part with him and he became a permanent member of their family.
“Rascal had an amazing life in his new home, despite having some ongoing health issues. He sadly passed away earlier this year from natural causes, but in the final phase of his life he was surrounded by so much love and attention,” said Moriarty.
She notes that the case highlights the need for pet guardians to ensure their animals have proper flea protection. “This was a severe case, but people should be aware that fleas feed on blood and it can be extremely dangerous for their pets.”