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The BC SPCA has announced it seized 66 dogs from a puppy mill in Langley, calling it one of the largest seizures in B.C.’s history.
The 32 adult dogs and 34 puppies included Old English sheepdogs, Bernese mountain dogs, soft-coated Wheaton terriers, standard poodles, miniature poodles, and Portuguese water dogs. The dogs were seized from the breeder on February 4th, 2016.
BC SPCA shelter and veterinary staff have been working around the clock to care for the animals, which have a variety of injuries and psychological issues. The dogs have serious medical conditions including broken limbs, missing ears and eyes, infections and abscesses, malnourishment, dental disease, severe matting, fur caked in dried feces, and overgrown nails.
“Many of these dogs required urgent medical care and many others show signs of fearfulness due to lack of socialization,” said chief prevention and enforcement officer Marcie Moriarty.
According to Moriarty, the dogs were kept in deplorable conditions, with multiple dogs living in small, stacked crates and cages, in dark, unheated buildings with dangerous ammonia levels from accumulated urine.
“It is inconceivable to think that anyone allowed these innocent animals to suffer like this,” noted Moriarty. “We have to make it clear to unscrupulous breeders who sacrifice animals on the altar of profit that this type of neglect and cruelty is not acceptable to British Columbians.”
Criminal charges against the breeder are being prepared by the BC SPCA. The organization was tipped off about the situation by a member of the public.
“A key step in shutting down puppy mills is for those who are purchasing animals to be educated and aware of the signs of unscrupulous operations,” she says. “The BC SPCA has a number of web and print resources that outline the difference between legitimate breeders and puppy mills. We urge people to arm themselves with knowledge and to immediately call our animal cruelty hotline (1-855-622-7722) to report any suspicious situations where animals may be in distress.”
The dogs and puppies are currently on a protective hold in BC SPCA custody as the investigation continues and will continue to receive necessary veterinary care and treatment but are not currently available for adoption.
The Vancouver shelter is looking for donations such as blankets, towels, and dog beds to help keep the dogs and puppies warm and comfortable. Anyone interested in donating can contact the Vancouver SPCA shelter directly.
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