Ellie and her puppies
Image Credit: SUBMITTED// SPCA
September 17, 2024 - 6:00 PM
BC SPCA officers seized three pit bulls, including one pregnant female, that were being kept in "horrible" living conditions at a Kelowna home.
The male and two female pit bulls were living in the rat-infested home with a floor covered with dog urine and feces. The pregnant dog was severely underweight.
“This was a horrible situation for both the people living in the home and the dogs that were rescued,” Amrika Tikasingh with the SPCA said in a release. “Large rats were seen jumping in and out of the windows and running throughout the home. The animal protection officers reported that the smell was overwhelming.”
The residents were setting out dog food for the rats, making the problem worse.
Ellie, the pregnant dog, was X-rayed at the Penticton Veterinary Hospital and it showed she was pregnant with 10 puppies.
“Ellie was due to give birth quickly, so there wasn’t enough time to find a foster who could accommodate a pregnant mom and 10 puppies,” Tikasingh said. “She gave birth in the animal centre.”
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/BC SPCA
The other two adult dogs, Henry and Sugar, were in good health.
Ellie gave birth to her litter in the veterinary hospital. One of her puppies did not survive
“Ellie found comfort in a soft squeeze toy that she must have with her at all times,” Tikasingh said. “She was clearly grieving the loss of her puppy."
All the other puppies are currently healthy and will be up for adoption at eight weeks old. Ellie is currently being taken care of and in recovery to reach a healthy weight.
“It is obvious that Ellie has had far too many litters for a dog of her age,” Tikasingh said. “This sweet girl with so much love to give needs a break from being pregnant.”
Henry has already found a home through adoption and Sugar is currently available to adopt.
Ellie, once spayed and recovered, will be up for adoption along with her puppies.
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