Image credit: BC SPCA

By Aaron Schulze

Dog Seizure

VIDEO: 31 neglected dogs seized from Clearwater property

Feb 20, 2024 | 10:50 AM

CLEARWATER, B.C. — The owner of dozens of dogs at a property in Clearwater has surrendered them after an animal cruelty investigation was launched by the BC SPCA.

In a news release issued Tuesday (Feb. 20) morning, the SPCA says 31 dogs were rescued from the Clearwater property. The dogs of varying ages include dachshunds, poodles, Mini Schnauzers and various poodle-mix breeds.

The SPCA say one of the dogs, a senior dachshund, was euthanized after a large, abdominal mass was discovered to be a late-stage tumour.

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“The dogs were owned by an irresponsible breeder who was keeping them in a dark building without adequate heating or bedding for the dogs. It was very unsanitary with an overwhelming ammonia smell,” Eileen Drever, BC SPCA senior officer for protection and stakeholder relations, says. “The owners were not providing them with the necessary veterinary care, enrichment or socialization they desperately needed.”

The SPCA says the dogs are suffering psychologically, along with dealing with physical health issues.

“The dogs are extremely fearful,” Drever adds. “Many couldn’t be touched at all, and the dogs cowered in fear when the owner came near. This breeder was meeting with potential buyers in parking lots, which is a red flag that the animals are not being adequately cared for. If they won’t let you visit the dogs where they are being housed, don’t purchase a dog from them.”

The SPCA says it will be recommending criminal charges. As the dogs will need extensive rehabilitation, it’s unknown when they will be available for adoption.

Image credit: BC SPCA