SPCA saves 7 dogs from freezing conditions in B.C.’s Interior

Seven dogs have been seized from a property in B.C.’s Interior after someone reported that they were kept outside during the region’s recent big freeze.

The BC SPCA says the dogs — two four-year-old poodles, a five-year-old Australian shepherd, a four-year-old cocker spaniel, and three five-month-old Australian shepherd poodle mix puppies — were saved from the property in Cherryville, approximately 100 kilometres northeast of Kelowna.

“A concerned citizen called our animal helpline about the living conditions of these dogs,” said Eileen Drever, senior protection officer with the BC SPCA.

“When the BC SPCA’s animal protection officer visited the property, they observed the dogs in outdoor pens with only some straw on the ice and snow and a couple of tarps for cover.”

According to Drever, the owner confirmed suspicions that the dogs were being kept outdoors.

“Dogs kept outside are inherently vulnerable but in these freezing temperatures they are also susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia,” Drever explained.

“These dog breeds are particularly vulnerable as they do not have the kind of coats that can endure lengthy periods of time outdoors in freezing temperatures, especially the puppies.”

The BC SPCA says the dogs’ living spaces were “contaminated with feces and urine,” and water bowls were flipped over or frozen.

“Although some of the dogs had access to plastic dog crates, there was very little bedding and it is clear these dogs suffered in the cold with no other options to get warm,” Drever said, adding the dogs’ fur was heavily matted and their nails overgrown.

“This is yet another case of a backyard breeder not taking adequate care of their dogs.”

The SPCA says the dogs will be available for adoption in one to two weeks.