B.C. SPCA took over 100 dogs into care from a northern B.C. property.

Image Credit: SUBMITTED/B.C. SPCA

A group of various emergency officials teamed up to take almost 120 dogs into care from a property near Fort Nelson.

"I can’t think of a case in recent memory that comes close to this one,” chief enforcement and prevention officer for the B.C. SPCA spokesperson Marcie Moriarty said in news release.

The dogs, which include 103 adults and 16 puppies, were sent to SPCA facilities in Fort St. John and Dawson Creek for initial intake, assessment and treatment. The animals were released into care Friday.

“The owners found themselves in an overwhelming situation and reached out for help,” Moriarty said in the release. “They did the right thing in asking for assistance and the SPCA was happy to support them.” 

Moriarty says there is no evidence the dogs were being bred for sale and no animal cruelty charges are being recommended at this time.

SPCA took over 100 dogs into care from a property in northern B.C.

Image Credit: SUBMITTED/B.C. SPCA

The mix-breed dogs included terriers, shih tzus, papillions and other small-breed crosses.

Many of the dogs were severely matted, and are undergoing treatment for dental issues, hernias, nose abrasions, eye issues, nutritional needs and other concerns, SPCA said.

Some of the dogs are pregnant and many are fearful of human handling and will need ongoing behavioural support. The dogs are not available for adoption currently,

“We initially were prepared for the surrender of 22 dogs as this was the number given by the owners,” Moriarty said. “But as the numbers crept up it was incredible to see our constable on site think creatively and how the fire department and RCMP rallied, even sourcing out additional crates and transporting dogs in fire trucks so that no dog was left behind.

“Managing an unexpected intake of 119 dogs has put a huge strain on our financial resources and, as a non-profit organization, we are very grateful for the public’s support. In the first three days veterinary costs are already over $14,000.”

For updates on adoption, check spca.bc.ca/adopt.

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