Tessa the nine-year-old Yorkie rescued in West Kelowna in July 2025.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/BC SPCA
September 02, 2025 - 10:53 AM
A nine-year-old Yorkie is on the mend after the BC SPCA rescued her from a breeder who mistreated her.
Tessa the Yorkie was one of several animals surrendered in July when a BC SPCA investigation found out they were living in poor conditions, according to a press release issued today, Sept. 2.
Tessa had at least five litters and a veterinarian examination found that she had broken and missing teeth, skin issues, fecal matter on her coat and luxating patellas which is an issue with her knees.
“She was severely under socialized and visibly fearful,” BC SPCA senior protection officer Eileen Drever said in the release.
The manager of the South Okanagan and Similkameen animal centre Brittney Vazorka said the years of breeding left Tessa in rough shape.
“Years of breeding left her fearful and withdrawn, she didn’t trust people and she did not like physical contact,” Vazorka said in the release.
She was spayed, had dental surgery and started her recovery journey.
Tessa the Yorkie happy and healthy after being rescued.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/BC SPCA
“She was such a trooper and recovered quickly,” Vazorka said. “It didn’t take long for her to start to feel comfortable around staff and volunteers. She soon became the cuddliest lap dog.”
Just when the BC SPCA was finding her a forever home, Tessa got extremely sick. She was diagnosed with pancreatitis.
“She couldn’t keep food down,” Vazorka said.
She went through treatment for pancreatitis including intravenous fluids, antibiotics and anti-nausea medication. After 48 hours in hospital with continuous care she was fit to go to a foster home.
“Now she’s finally on the road to recovery with her foster, who she adores,” Vazorka said.
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