One of 45 Havanese dogs that came to the SPCA in filthy conditions after a former breeder brought them in on Apr. 12, 2018.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/B.C. SPCA
April 16, 2018 - 3:30 PM
VICTORIA - The B.C. SPCA is caring for dozens of neglected dogs surrendered by a former breeder outside Victoria this week.
The breeder voluntarily handed over the 45 Havanese and Havanese-cross dogs on Apr. 12, according to a B.C. SPCA media release.
When the animals came in to the SPCA’s care their coats were extremely matted with feces and urine. They had been living in unacceptable conditions inside the home due to high levels of ammonia.
“Our staff have spent the past few days assessing the physical and psychological well-being of the dogs and providing immediate medical care for any issues," Marcie Moriarty with the B.C. SPCA says in the release.
She says the dogs were so filthy and matted that extensive bathing and grooming was needed before they could assess their condition.
While the breeder had stopped selling dogs nearly five years ago, Moriarty says this is an example of why new breeder regulations are urgently needed in B.C.
“Whether it involves a puppy mill where a breeder is putting profits before the welfare of the animals or a situation where an individual becomes overwhelmed with the number of animals in their care, we need to have standards for breeders and a way for members of the public to identify legitimate breeders from those who are not providing good care and welfare for their animals,” Moriarty says.
The B.C. SPCA will be recommending charges of animal cruelty in the case.
The dogs are being cared for at a number of SPCA shelters on Vancouver Island but are not currently up for adoption.
You can check the B.C. SPCA adoption site for updates here.
Donations can be made here.
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