Matthew Dean Tremblay, 22, pleaded guilty to one count of wounding a dog.
 |
| King has recovered from the brutal attack |
He would have received a six-month sentence, but was credited for 38 days of pre-sentence time in custody.
He also received 30 months' probation and must pay $5,233 in restitution for veterinary costs.
He is also prohibited from contacting his ex-girlfriend.
The sentence was delivered Monday in Nanaimo provincial court, but the beating took place January, when Tremblay entered the fenced back yard where the dog was being kept.
His girlfriend was not home at the time.
Tremblay proceeded to repeatedly kick, punch and strike the dog with a hammer.
According to the SPCA, the male dog, named King, received punctures to its skull, severe bruising to its head and body, broken and cracked teeth, deep cuts, swelling and ulceration of one of its eyes.
King was also vomiting and urinating blood.
"He sustained injuries literally from head to tail," said Tina Heary, a, animal protection officer with the SPCA, who said a witness heard cries from the dog and called police and the SPCA.
The dog needed extensive veterinary treatment and has since made a full recovery. He is living with his owner in another province.
"Anyone who could inflict such suffering on an animal . . . without the slightest sign of compassion must be regarded as a danger to the community. . . . I do not believe a human being with a healthy psyche could commit such an offence," said Judge Ted Gouge during sentencing.
Lorie Chortyk, general manager of community relations for the B.C. SPCA, called the attack "unspeakably brutal."
Tremblay also received a 12-month suspended sentence for one count of mischief.
(Canada.com - Nov 8, 2012)
