The BC SPCA recently seized a baker’s dozen miniature dachshunds from a property in between 100 Mile House and Clearwater.
The investigation into the animals’ welfare began after a person who purchased a puppy from the breeder contacted the BC SPCA expressing concern about the welfare of the remaining dogs.
The BC SPCA says that animal protection officers seized the 13 dogs, ranging in age from 12 weeks to 12 years old, from the “irresponsible breeder” on March 19.
According to a news release, the dogs were found housed individually in small cages on a property that had heat issues and no running water.
“Their bedding was caked with feces and soaked in urine, and the majority of the dogs did not have access to water,” the release explained.
“Many of the dogs had severely overgrown nails to the point of them curling under, so severe in one case that a veterinarian needed to surgically remove an embedded claw from the dog’s paw.”
In addition, nearly all the adult dogs are suffering from severe dental disease.
“The condition of these dogs’ teeth is unlike anything I’ve ever seen,” noted Jamie Wiltse, regional manager of animal protection services. “In all my years working with animals, I’ve never seen such severe dental disease.”
Poor socialization was also an issue for the animals, and Wiltse said it was sad to see them more comfortable in their crates than around humans.
“They seemed quite wary of human touch, but with patience and encouragement, they eventually warmed up to our animal protection officers,” Wiltse noted.
The miniature dachshunds are currently “decompressing” and receiving medical care at the BC SPCA centre, and therefore are not up for adoption at this time.
The BC SPCA will be recommending charges against this breeder and offer up the following tips to the public regarding irresponsible breeding.
