The BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has rescued 13 miniature Dachshunds from an irresponsible breeder in the South Cariboo.
Last week on Thursday, March 19, the BC SPCA’s Animal Protection Officers seized the dogs from a breeder located between 100 Mile House and Clearwater. The dogs, who range in age from as young as 12 weeks to as old as 12 years, were all found housed individually in small cages on a property with heat issues and no running water.
In addition, the officers found their bedding to be caked in faeces and soaked with urine, with no access to water. Most of the dogs’ nails were also severely overgrown and had curled under their paws. After being rescued, one dog had to have an embedded claw surgically removed by a veterinarian. On top of these other issues, almost all of the adult dogs were suffering from dental disease.
“The condition of these dogs’ teeth is unlike anything I’ve ever seen,” Jamie Wiltse, SPCA’s regional manager of animal protection services, said. “In all my years working with animals, I’ve never seen such severe dental disease.”
Wiltse noted that on top of all the health issues, it soon became clear the dogs were poorly socialized as well. He noted that the animals were more comfortable in their crates than around humans, which was sad to see.
“They seemed quite wary of human touch, but with patience and encouragement, they eventually warmed up to our animal protection officers,” Wiltse described.
This rescue came following an investigation prompted by a call to the BC SPCA Helpline. An individual who had purchased a puppy from the breeder told the SPCA they were concerned about the welfare of the remaining dogs. The puppy had been advertised through a popular classified ads website, according to the BC SPCA.
Following this incident, the SPCA said it is an important reminder to the public to be vigilant for signs of irresponsible breeding when adding new animals to their home. They listed four tips that can help people avoid supporting an irresponsible breeder.
The first tip is to remember that a responsible breeder should never have an issue with your touring their facilities and meeting the puppy’s family. The mother of the puppy should be present and there should be no more than two or three breeds and litters present.
Secondly, when you’re going to a breeder, all animals, including the mom, should be visibly healthy, social and well cared for. If they’re not, a case similar to the Dachshunds may be taking place.
When talking with a responsible breeder, they should ask you questions about your lifestyle and expectations for your new animal. You should also ask them questions about the animal’s health, genetics and living conditions.
Finally, the BC SPCA said you should never purchase an animal from anyone who asks to meet in a shopping centre, parking lot, or anywhere else that is not their breeding facility.
In the case of the miniature Dachshunds rescued on March 19, the BC SPCA said they are currently decompressing and receiving medical care at a BC SPCA centre. None of them is currently available for adoption as of the publication of this article.
“The BC SPCA will be recommending charges against this breeder to Crown Counsel,” the SPCA stated.
Anyone with concerns about an animal in distress can contact the BC SPCA Helpline at 1-855-622-7722.