BC NEWS, VANCOUVER ISLAND

Tuesday, November 28, 2023

The BC SPCA has taken 37 small breed dogs, including two moms with seven puppies, two Bernedoodles, plus five cats into their care after they were found living in a home filled with feces, urine and garbage in a community off the coast of Vancouver Island. The animals were transported by boat to Nanaimo and they will be cared for and will be cared for at BC SPCA centres across Vancouver Island.

“The home where the 44 animals were living was so bad you could smell the feces before you entered,” says Eileen Drever, senior officer protection and stakeholder relations for the BC SPCA. “When the animal protection officers entered the home they discovered the main floor was covered in what can only be described as a carpet of feces and there were incredible amounts of garbage in many of the rooms.” Drever adds that animals could be found everywhere, including inside the walls. “There was no visible food or water for them. The home had no running water at all.”

The small breed dogs are a combination of Havanese, Papillons, poodles and Pomeranian mixes.  The litters consist of two puppies that are approximately three weeks old and five puppies that are approximately six weeks old.  The dogs and cats are currently under the care of a veterinarian. Drever says all the animals were very dirty and smelled of feces and urine. “Their paws were urine stained and they had overgrown nails.”

Of the dogs that have already been fully examined, many are emaciated and there is also evidence of dental disease. Drever says the dogs are doing remarkably well given what they have been through. “A number of the dogs were fearful, but after a night in the animal centre, they were excited to see BC SPCA staff,” says Drever.

Today marks Giving Tuesday and, in celebration, a group of loyal BC SPCA donors will double every caring gift to animals in need. Eileen & Anna (in honour of Rogue, Jaide & Leo), the Eldon & Anne Foote Fund at the Edmonton Community Foundation and an anonymous donor will match any donation up to $125,000.

It is unknown at this time when these animals will be available for adoption.

Released by: BC SPCA