The BC SPCA executed a warrant on May 29 to seize 15 badly neglected Bichon Frise dogs from a Fraser Valley breeder.
The dogs, who range in age from under one year to 14 years, were suffering from a wide range of medical and grooming issues.
“The dogs were very badly matted, with urine and feces caked into their fur,” says Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer for the BC SPCA. “Conditions include painful eye and ear infections, dental disease, significant hair loss and skin infections. Moriarty notes that the dogs also had dramatically overgrown nails and other neglect issues. One of the dogs is heavily pregnant.
“Puppy mills and substandard breeders continue to be a serious animal welfare issue in B.C. and this case highlights the urgent need for breeder regulations to monitor this industry,” says Moriarty, noting that the issue of breeder regulations is currently before the provincial government awaiting action.
The 15 dogs are currently receiving emergency medical triage and ongoing care in SPCA shelters but are not up for adoption at this time. “Whenever we have a large-scale seizure like this it always places an enormous strain on our resources and we are grateful for the public’s support in helping us offset the medical and care costs to help these dogs recover,” says Moriarty. If you can help, please visit spca.bc.ca/emergency.
The SPCA investigation into the case continues and charges of animal cruelty will be recommended.