Calgary police charge man in animal abuse investigation

Calgary police have charged one man in connection to an animal abuse investigation.

On Tuesday, Aug. 15, around 7:40 p.m., investigators received reports of a man abusing a dog while walking in Inglewood.

Police say a witness confronted the man about his behaviour towards the dog, at which time it’s believed the suspect threatened the individual.

Investigators say officers responded to the call and patrolled the area, but weren’t able to find the suspect.

Calgary Community Standards and the Calgary Humane Society (CHS) were made aware of the incident at this time, according to police.

On Thursday, Aug. 17, a tip was made to police which allowed them to identify the person believed to be responsible for the earlier incident.

During the investigation, police were made aware that the dog is owned by the Alberta Rescue Foundation (ARF), and was being fostered by the suspect at the time of the incident.

ARF immediately removed the dog from the suspect’s care, officers say.

On Friday, Aug. 18, 2023, the dog was brought to a designated forensic veterinarian for examination, according to Calgary police, which found injuries on the dog believed to be consistent with abuse.

The dog was released back into the care of ARF for close monitoring while it continues to recover.

Lawrence Chow, 40, of Calgary, has been charged with causing unnecessary suffering to animals, injuring or endangering animals, uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm, and assault with a weapon.

At the time of his arrest, another dog was seized from Chow’s care and will remain with the Calgary Humane Society.

Police say the man is no longer allowed to have animals in his possession.

Chow is set to appear in court on Thursday, Aug. 31.

Investigators say more charges could be laid in relation to the incident.

Anyone with information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact police by calling 403-266-1234 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.