The BC SPCA has rescued seven dogs from a property in Cherryville, BC after a concerned citizen reported that they were being kept outdoors in sub-zero temperatures.
Two four-year-old standard poodles, a five-year-old Australian shepherd, a four-year-old cocker spaniel and three five- month-old Australian shepherd poodle mix puppies were rescued.
“A concerned citizen called our animal helpline about the living conditions of these dogs,” says Eileen Drever, senior protection officer and stakeholder relations for the BC SPCA.
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“When the BC SPCA’s animal protection officer visited the property, they observed the dogs in outdoors pens with only some straw on the ice and snow and a couple of tarps for cover.”
The owner confirmed to the BC SPCA that the dogs were kept outdoors.
“Dogs kept outside are inherently vulnerable but in these freezing temperatures they are also susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia.”
“These dog breeds are particularly vulnerable as they do not have the kind of coats that can endure lengthy periods of time outdoors in freezing temperatures, especially the puppies.”
The pens they were kept in were “contaminated with feces and urine”. Their dog bowls were flipped over or frozen.
Drever adds that it’s clear that these dogs suffered out in the cold without any way of staying warm.
“This is yet another case of a backyard breeder not taking adequate care of their dogs,” says Drever. She asks the public to do their research and make sure they are acquiring a dog from a reputable breeder. “We don’t want to support breeders that don’t prioritize the welfare of their animals. There are resources available on the BC SPCA website to help you find a good breeder.”
The BC SPCA is currently caring for the dogs and they will be available for adoption in about one to two weeks.
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