‘Horrific’: BC SPCA saves 15 starving dogs from Clearwater breeder

Editor’s Note: This story contains details and pictures that may be disturbing to some

The BC SPCA says 15 starving dogs have been rescued over the last few days from a breeder in the District of Clearwater.

The group says the over-a-dozen Cane Corso’s rescued included seven 10 week old puppies, and eight dogs under the age of three.

Although the dogs are now “warm and safe” and getting medical attention, the BC SPCA says they were found in “horrific” condition.

Eileen Drever with the BC SPCA says many of the dogs were found drastically under-weight.

“The condition of these animals was just horrific – many of them were extremely emaciated,” Eileen Drever with the BC SPCA explained.

“It was one of the worst cases I have seen in my 42 years with the BC SPCA.”

Related Articles:

• BC SPCA brings back the Betty White Challenge

• Over 60 neglected dogs removed from Mission property: BC SPCA

• 9 abandoned kittens rescued from Vancouver construction site

Three of the dogs are under intensive veterinary care, with the remainder also needing medical attention.

“In addition to their medical needs, which will likely be significant due to their starvation, many of the dogs are extremely fearful and unsocialized and will need on-going behavioural support before they are emotionally and psychologically healed,” Drever explained.

Drever says in addition to not being fed enough, some of the older dogs were also housed outdoors in freezing temperatures.

“Some of the dogs were kept outside all day in sub-zero temperatures, with no shelter from the elements, no food and water bowls frozen over,” she said.

The BC SPCA says 15 starving dogs were rescued in Clearwater. (Photo courtesy of the BC SPCA)

“The pens had compact snow and ice and no dry place for them to lay down – I don’t how much longer these poor dogs would have lasted.”

Although the younger puppies fared slightly better by being kept indoors, Drever says they also didn’t have access to food.

“There was evidence that at least three of the dogs had eaten parts of a blanket from the floor, desperate for anything to eat to try to stay alive,” Drever explained.

Drever says the situation is being investigated, and there could be charges laid against the breeder.

“The investigation continues and charges of animal cruelty are being recommended to Crown counsel in the case,” she said.

“No animal should be subjected to this kind of suffering…We are so relieved that they are now warm and safe in our care and getting the nutrition and medical help they urgently need,” she said.

With files from Robyn Crawford