Forty-one dogs, smelling heavily of urine and severely matted, have been surrendered by a “backyard breeder” to the Alberta SPCA from a rural property in southern Alberta just east of Calgary. A concerned citizen alerted officials to the breeding operation.
The Border Collie and 40 Shih Tzus ranged from puppies to 11 years old, and included a pregnant dog and a mother that had just given birth.
“Many of them have rotten teeth, eye infections, hernias and severe ear infections,” Deanna Thompson, executive director of the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS) said in a statement. The dogs are now in the care of AARCS and will eventually be put up for adoption.
Muttley Crue Organics owner Annie Cole donated free baths and grooming for the dogs, who are now in Calgary. She said it took five groomers more than nine hours to groom 29 of the animals.
“It is heartbreaking to see any animal in this condition, especially this many from one place,” said Thompson, who added medical care such as dental work, spaying and neutering and foster placements will cost over $30,000.
The Alberta SPCA is investigating the case, and said examinations by veterinarians will help determine whether charges will be laid against the dog breeders.
Spokesperson Roland Lines added the former owners still have three pets that are in good health, “all of which either are or will be spayed or neutered.”
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