Nearly 100 animals are in much better hands today than they were earlier this week thanks to the BC SPCA.
Animal protection officers executed a warrant on Wednesday and seized 97 “badly neglected” animals from a Princeton property after receiving a complaint about them being in distress.
That included 43 puppies, 24 adult and senior dogs, 27 horses and three cats.
“The animals were living in an extremely poor environment, with lack of shelter, unsanitary living conditions, overcrowding, poor ventilation and were exposed to injurious objects,” said Marcie Moriarty, BC SPCA.
“Some of the animals were being kept on short chains with no visible access to water, and many of the animals are underweight or emaciated.”
Moriarty says the dogs and puppies are a range of breeds and breed crosses.
One of the litters of puppies is being treated for possible distemper, while others are being treated for other medical issues.
The dogs and cats are all being cared for at the BC SPCA’s Kelowna and Penticton branches, although some could be transferred to the Lower Mainland.
The horses are being cared for at a facility in Armstrong and it’s possible that two of them may have to be euthanized because of their condition.
Moriarty says the owner of the animals is known to the BC SPCA.
“We have definitely had dealings with this individual before and have seized numerous animals from her,” she explained.
“It is extremely frustrating because she frequently moves between properties and is known to hide animals from authorities.”
SPCA staff are working around the clock to triage the animals and assess their condition, while ongoing veterinary care will be provided as needed.
The animals are not currently available for adoption.
As always, donations to help with medical costs are urgently needed and appreciated.
