Animal neglect charge against Foothills County dog kennel owner withdrawn

A charge of animal neglect against a Foothills County dog kennel owner has been withdrawn.

Multiple firearms-related charges have also been withdrawn.

Justin Stenabaugh, who owns The Dawg Father Daycare and Boarding, pleaded guilty to a single charge each of unauthorized possession of a prohibited or restricted weapon and careless use or storage of a firearm.

He received a 12-month conditional sentence and six months of probation, as well as a firearms prohibition.

“Finally, after everything that’s been said about my family and business in a very negative and public (manner), we’ve been cleared of any animal neglect charges,” Stenabaugh said in a social media post.

“My family and I would like to send a huge and heartfelt thank you to everybody who supported us at this time and never wavered in your trust and belief in who we are.

“When we set up again now, we will always do whatever we can to be there for all of you the way you were here for all of us!”

The charges stem from an incident this past September.

Stenabaugh faced 10 firearms-related charges and one charge of animal neglect.

The RCMP said at the time officers observed weapons in plain view and animals not being suitably cared for.

Alberta Justice confirmed Wednesday that eight of the firearms-related charges and the animal neglect charge were withdrawn.

Justice also confirmed the sentencing for the remaining two firearms-related charges.

Speaking with CTV News this past October, Stenabaugh denied the allegations.

“If I’ve done something that’s wrong that they actually want to criminally charge me with the guns, that’s fine,” he told CTV News.

“As for this (animal neglect) charge, I know for a fact it’s not going to stick because I’ve never neglected or abused an animal in my care ever—ever—nor would I.”

Stenabaugh said a dog that arrived into his care in early August was “very, very slim” and was provided with extra food for the multiple weeks it was at the boarding facility.

CTV News has reached out to Stenabaugh for further comment.