BC SPCA constables have removed 24 small dogs and puppies and six cats from a puppy breeding operation near Lillooet, B.C. The animals were all suffering from severe neglect.

BC SPCA constables seized 16 dogs and four cats from the remote property earlier this month and a further eight dogs and two cats were surrendered to SPCA constables this past weekend as part of the ongoing investigation.

The canines taken into SPCA care include 15 Havanese and Havanese-cross dogs, eight Yorkie-cross dogs and one emaciated Husky cross.

“The dogs were kept in a filthy environment with high levels of ammonia from urine and have serious dental disease and badly matted fur,” says Kent Kokoska, senior animal protection officer for the BC SPCA.

“Some of the dogs were being kept in a chicken coup filled with chicken and dog feces and one of the dogs and two puppies were being kept in a rodent cage.”

Kokoska said the four cats removed from the property were severely matted and were also living in filthy and hazardous conditions, without proper ventilation and light.

All of the animals are being cared for at SPCA facilities in Kamloops and Kelowna.

The BC SPCA investigation continues and charges of animal cruelty may be recommended in the case.