On November 21, Bonnie Milligan, a breeder based in Clearwater, plead guilty to animal cruelty charges contrary to section 9.1 (2) of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act for causing or permitting an animal to be in distress.
Early last year, the BC SPCA investigated complaints of animal cruelty after an individual purchased a dog in concerning condition from Milligan in a parking lot in Kamloops. During the investigation, it was discovered that Milligan had 59 dogs on her property. Many of the dogs were found to be in distress, suffering from medical concerns, living in unsanitary conditions, and without adequate access to shelter or water. They demonstrated high levels of fearfulness due to being severely under-socialized.
The BC SPCA executed a search warrant on Milligan’s property, resulting in the surrender of 31 dogs, and recommended animal cruelty charges to Crown counsel. The court then imposed bail terms that limited Milligan to having custody or control of a maximum of 15 dogs for non-commercial purposes.
Following her guilty plea, Milligan received 12 months’ probation, including a curfew for a period of six months. Milligan may not own, have custody or control of, or reside in the same premises as more than 15 dogs for companion purposes. All dogs must be seen by a veterinarian during the probation period, and evidence of this must be submitted to Milligan’s probation officer. To be compliant with these conditions, Milligan must allow inspections by the BC SPCA or peace officers for a period of 5 years.
Milligan also shall not own, have custody or control of, or reside in the same premises as any dog that is associated with a commercial purpose or regulated activity, including, but not limited to breeding, care, keeping, training, use, transportation, disposition, or selling for a period of 10 years.
The BC SPCA urges individuals looking to add a furry member to their family to thoroughly research the breeder they’re considering. When certain breeds or mixed breeds of dogs gain popularity it can lead to a surge in breeding activity, but not every breeder cares for their animals with the same level of responsibility. The BC SPCA recommends these four tips to ensure you don’t accidentally support irresponsible breeding:
- Do not purchase a pet from anyone who asks to meet you in a shopping centre, parking lot or somewhere other than their breeding facility.
- A responsible breeder should be happy and willing to show you their facility and introduce you to the puppy’s family. The mom should be on-site, and there shouldn’t be more than two to three breeds or litters present.
- A responsible breeder will ask you a lot of questions about your lifestyle and expectations. They will be willing to answer questions about socialization, health, genetics, and living conditions. Be sure to ask them these types of questions.
- All animals, including the adoptable animals and their mom, should be visibly healthy, social, and well-cared for.