Ontario Taxpayers Bear $98,000 Burden After Massive Dog Seizure in Hamilton
Ontario taxpayers have been left responsible for a substantial $98,000 bill after authorities seized 58 dogs from a Hamilton home described as being "covered in layers of feces" with floors "soaked in urine." The case highlights the significant financial consequences of animal hoarding situations for provincial resources.
Original $108,928 Bill Slashed to $10,000 Due to Financial Hardship
Alina Vernigorova, the Hamilton woman whose home was raided last July, initially faced a staggering $108,928.64 charge from Ontario's chief animal welfare inspector for the care of her seized animals. However, after appealing to the Animal Care Review Board, that amount was dramatically reduced to just $10,000.
The board's vice-chair, Debra Backstein, cited Vernigorova's "significant financial distress" as the primary reason for the reduction. In her decision, Backstein noted that Vernigorova is unemployed, carries substantial debt, cares for an autistic son, and faces mental health challenges including depression.
Horrific Conditions Discovered During Investigation
Animal Welfare Service Senior Investigator Tina Magliocco testified about the appalling conditions discovered at the Stoney Creek residence. The investigation began after multiple complaints about the welfare of a large number of dogs at the property.
Key findings from the investigation included:
- The dwelling was covered in layers of feces with urine-soaked floors
- Dogs were found throughout the house, some in crates, all living in unsanitary conditions
- Some animals had fleas and fur matted with feces
- Air testing revealed dangerously high ammonia levels
- Vernigorova was discovered with feces on her legs and shoes during the raid
Massive Seizure Operation and Hidden Dog Discovery
The seizure occurred on July 4, 2025, after Hamilton Police Service contacted AWS about concerns regarding a dog in distress in the yard. Police had already removed one dog before AWS arrived with a search warrant.
Veterinarian Dr. Bruce Robertson recommended removing all 58 dogs from the home "to relieve their distress." The majority of the seized animals were miniature poodles - 55 of the 58 dogs fell into this breed category.
In a surprising follow-up discovery, Magliocco returned to the home on July 10, 2025, after concerns that additional animals might still be on the property. Investigators found an additional dog hidden behind a bathtub within a wall cavity, which was subsequently removed.
Animal Care Review Board Cites Uncontrolled Breeding
The Animal Care Review Board specifically noted that "uncontrolled breeding of the dogs was a significant contributor to the scale of the expenses incurred." This statement underscores how breeding practices can exponentially increase the costs associated with animal welfare interventions.
The case represents a significant financial burden for Ontario taxpayers, who will now cover the remaining $98,000 not paid by Vernigorova. The funds will be directed to Ontario's finance minister to offset the substantial costs of caring for the seized animals during their recovery and rehabilitation period.
This incident follows similar animal hoarding cases across Ontario, including recent seizures of Boston terriers from urine-soaked homes in other municipalities. The pattern suggests ongoing challenges in addressing large-scale animal welfare situations before they reach crisis levels requiring expensive interventions.
