3 pit bull mixes rescued by BC SPCA, one gives birth to 10 puppies
Posted September 17, 2024 9:49 am.
The BC SPCA says three pit bull mixes have been rescued from a home in Kelowna, which it says was “infested with rats” and covered in feces and urine.
In a statement, the animal protection society says it was a “horrible” situation for both the dogs and the people living in the home.
“Large rats were seen jumping in and out of the windows and running throughout the home. The animal protection officers reported that the smell was overwhelming,” said Amrika Tikasingh, manager of the South Okanagan – Similkameen animal centre.
She adds that the people living in the home attempted to also care for the baby rats, putting dog food out for the rodents, “which made the problem much worse.”
The three pit bulls were taken into care, where they x-rayed one of the dogs — Ellie — which uncovered that she was in the late stages of pregnancy with a litter of 10 puppies.
“Ellie was due to give birth quickly, so there wasn’t enough time to find a foster who could accommodate a pregnant mom and 10 puppies,” Tikasingh explained.
Unfortunately, one of the puppies didn’t survive.
“Ellie found comfort in a soft squeeze toy that she must have with her at all times,” said Tikasingh. “She was clearly grieving the loss of her puppy.”
The surviving puppies are thriving with no health concerns, she adds, and the SPCA is currently working with a local animal hospital to stabilize Ellie’s weight and she makes her recovery.
The dogs are currently in the care of the staff at the Penticton centre, however, Tikasingh says they’re “desperately” looking for foster carers.
“As soon as Ellie is ready, she will be scheduled for spay surgery. It is obvious that Ellie has had far too many litters for a dog of her age,” Tikasingh said. “This sweet girl with so much love to give needs a break from being pregnant.”
When the puppies are around eight weeks old, they will become available for adoption. The SPCA adds Ellie will also be available once she has recovered from her spay surgery.
As for the other two adult dogs, Henry has already found his forever home, while Sugar is currently available for adoption.
–With files from Mike Lloyd.
