59 ‘Extremely Fearful’ Dogs Rescued From BC Breeder—Now ‘Enjoying Snuggles’: SPCA

Dozens of dogs were rescued from a B.C. home on Dec. 4. Courtesy BC SPCA

The B.C. Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA) rescued 59 dogs from an “irresponsible breeder” in B.C.’s central Interior last week, and although the dogs were distressed and in need of urgent care, they are recovering well, says spokesperson Kaila Butler Wolf.

The dogs—including 12 chihuahuas, 4 French bulldogs, and 43 Cane Corsos—were rescued from a home in Quesnel after a concerned member of the public reached out to the BCSPCA in November regarding the animals’ welfare. On Dec. 4, animal protection officers arrived onsite and were shocked.

“When our officers arrived at the home, they just absolutely hit with an overwhelming smell of an ammonia odour, which was actually so bad it was burning their noses,” Wolf told The Epoch Times. “Quite, quite bad conditions.”

Wolf said the home was littered with garbage, dried feces caked to the floor, and hazards such as sharp objects and exposed, live electrical sockets.

“There were large portions of drywall that had been chewed through,” she said, adding that this could be “signs of both physical and mental distress.”

Of the dogs, 18 were puppies, many of whom shivered in fear and hid behind dilapidated couches from rescuers, while some were “extremely thin” with clearly visible ribs, spines and hip bones, Wolf said.

Fourteen exotic birds were also rescued, including parrots and lovebirds found with missing feathers, indicating stress. All of the animals were shuttled off to receive treatment.

Dogs resting at an SPCA shelter. Courtesy of BC SPCA

A mother dog at an SPCA shelter with her puppies. Courtesy of BC SPCA

To spread out the burden on resources, BC SPCA engaged its Drive for Lives program, transporting the dozens of animals to facilities across the province. Wolf noted several dogs were fitted with castration bands around their tails by their owner, which caused spinal infections and necessitated surgical removal of the animals’ tails.

Now, all the animals are receiving care and “recovering well,” and much of their fear and anxiety is fading away, Wolf said. When they were first rescued, they were “extremely fearful” and “would run away cowering in fear,” as described by BC SPCA’s Eileen Drever on the organization’s website.

“Most [of the dogs] are quickly starting to show staff their sweet, loving personalities,” Wolf said. “They’re particularly enjoying snuggles with volunteers and staff, and have a particular love of their toys—especially the squeaky ones!”

Among the 59 dogs rescued from a B.C. home on Dec. 4, 18 were puppies, described by Wolf as "fearful" upon coming into contact with rescuers. Courtesy of BC SPCA

Puppies receive care at an SPCA shelter. Courtesy of BC SPCA

Wolf said the BC SPCA won’t press charges against the responsible party but is recommending the Crown Council do so. “Unfortunately, we have seen an increasing number—a large, large number—of animals are coming in from irresponsible breeder situations,” she said.

She added that the economic hardships surrounding the COVID pandemic, including the rising cost of veterinary care and animal supplies, have impelled many to breed animals for profit.

For those looking to add a furry family member to the home, the BC SPCA recommends ensuring whichever breeder they choose provides their animals the best possible care. “We advocate, of course, that you first consider adopting from a shelter or a rescue organization that prioritizes animal welfare,” Wolf added.

The rescued canines are not available for adoption yet. They will be allowed to fully recover before being matched with a new forever home. The BC SPCA is asking for donations on their website to help with emergency care for the animals.