The BC SPCA has taken custody of 33 cats and dogs, including puppies, surrendered from a property in Nanaimo.
The organization said the animals’ guardian had become “overwhelmed” by their needs and that their numbers had grown due to “uncontrolled breeding.”
The surrender included two pitbull terrier mix mother dogs with 16 puppies, as well as four kittens.
“All the animals, including the puppies and kittens, had flea infestations,” BC SPCA senior officer for protection and stakeholder relations Eileen Drever said, adding the home was unsanitary, with feces and urine throughout.
“There was an inadequate amount of food and water for the animals, and it was obvious they had not received veterinary care. Their basic needs were not being met.”
The animals are being cared for at SPCA centres in Nanaimo, Parksville and qathet, and are receiving flea and parasite treatments. One of the dogs also has a growing lump on his head that may require intervention.
Aside from one of the mother dogs who is fearful of people, all of the other animals are friendly.
The SPCA says the puppies will be ready for adoption in about five months once they have been properly weaned.