Ladysmith Man Fined for Neglecting Dog, Shadow Finds New Home

A Ladysmith man has been fined and banned from pet ownership after neglecting his dog, highlighting animal welfare concerns on Vancouver Island.

VANCOUVER ISLAND — According to NanaimoNewsNOW, Sean Scott Modeste, 27, was sentenced to a $1,500 fine and a five-year ban on animal ownership after pleading guilty to causing distress to his Pitbull-mix puppy, Shadow. The neglect occurred between February and March 2023, during which the dog was found malnourished and chained outside a Ladysmith home without access to food, water, or shelter. The BCSPCA intervened after receiving complaints from local authorities, leading to the dog's eventual rescue and recovery.

This case underscores ongoing concerns about animal welfare in the region, particularly as Vancouver Island residents increasingly advocate for better treatment of pets. The successful recovery of Shadow, who has since been re-homed, serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in reporting animal neglect. Local animal welfare organizations continue to encourage community members to report any signs of distress in pets to ensure their safety and well-being.

This story was originally reported by NanaimoNewsNOW. For full details, visit the original article.

Sources

• NanaimoNewsNOW: https://nanaimonewsnow.com/2025/08/14/man-sentenced-for-woeful-neglect-of-ladysmith-dog/