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Warning: This story contains graphic details and images that may upset some readers. Please read at your own discretion.
The BC SPCA has seized 15 dogs who were found starving on a property in Clearwater.
The animal welfare organizations says the individual was allegedly breeding and selling cane corso puppies for profit during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Seven 10-week-old puppies and eight dogs under the age of three were found extremely emaciated on the North Thompson property.
Unfortunately, three of the dogs were in such bad shape that they remain in intensive veterinary care.
“It was one of the worst cases I have seen in my 42 years with the BC SPCA,” says Eileen Drever, senior officer of protection and stakeholder relations.
“Some of the dogs were kept outside all day in sub-zero temperatures, with no shelter from the elements, no food and water bowls frozen over.”
Many of the outdoor pens were covered in compact snow and ice with no dry place for the dogs to lay down in, says the organization in a news release.
Drever says the dogs would not have lasted much longer in those conditions.
The BC SPCA says the puppies were kept indoors in a crate but did not have access to food.
“There was evidence that at least three of the dogs had eaten parts of a blanket from the floor, desperate for anything to eat to try to stay alive,” says Drever, adding that some of the puppies also had wood splinters in their stool.
After the seizure, all 15 dogs were rushed to a vet for emergency medical treatment and are now in the care of the BC SPCA.
Not only do the dogs have various medical needs due to their starvation but many are “extremely” fearful and unsocialized, says the BC SPCA.
Unfortunately, all the dogs will require ongoing behavioural training and support until they are “emotionally and psychologically healed,” says Drever.
An investigation continues and charges of animal cruelty are being recommended to the Crown counsel.
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