A dog that was seized from a property near Salmo, B.C., is shown at a kennel at a BC SPCA location in this recent handout photo. The SPCA has seized 40 dogs from a sled dog operation in the West Kootenays following a cruelty investigation. The organization says the animals were rescued Tuesday from a property outside Salmo, B.C.THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO, BC SPCA *MANDATORY CREDIT*
February 18, 2021 - 6:24 PM
SALMO, B.C. - The SPCA has seized 40 dogs from a sled dog operation in the West Kootenay region of southeastern British Columbia following a cruelty investigation.
The organization says the animals were rescued Tuesday from a property outside Salmo, B.C.
Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer, says investigators had concerns about inadequate shelter, hypothermia, suspected dehydration and the behaviour of some of the dogs.
She alleges conditions on the property were in direct violation of some areas of the Sled Dog Code of Practice, which set out standards of care for housing, feeding, veterinary care and other areas.
Moriarty alleges officers worked with the responsible individual, providing clear direction on changes needed and an opportunity to improve conditions but he refused.
She says a number of dogs from an ad hoc "behavioural modification" service and boarding on the property were among the 40 removed.
The dogs have been taken to various SPCA locations where they are receiving veterinary treatment and ongoing care.
The investigation into the animal cruelty case continues and the animals are not available for adoption at this time.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 18, 2021.
News from © The Canadian Press, 2021