Okanagan dogs, horses seized in cruelty investigation

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PENTICTON, B.C. — Fourteen dogs, including four puppies, are in the care of the Penticton SPCA after an animal cruelty investigation in the north Okanagan. The two Rottweilers and 12 Carlin Pinschers were seized from a home in the Vernon area.

“They were under bad living conditions. Food wasn’t given to them every day,” says Carolyn Halkins with the Penticton SPCA. “They’re very fearful. Some of them are going to need more rehab work, but they’re getting better with the care and help of volunteers and staff.”

Seven horses were also seized from the property, including three mares, three foals and one stallion. They’re in the care of a foster home.

The cruelty investigation was launched after someone voiced concern about the number of animals on the property. The SPCA executed a search warrant and found the animals were living in unacceptable conditions.

The shelter confirmed the owners did surrender the dogs and horses. According to the SPCA, the owners admitted to having too many animals and not enough money to care for them.

The dogs were taken to the Penticton SPCA because there was no space at other shelters.

All of the adult dogs are now up for adoption, but since the puppies are only five weeks old, they won’t be ready for new homes for another month. Because of the fearful nature of the dogs, the SPCA is looking to find owners with a calm demeanor in a household without children.

Many of the horses will be up for adoption in the next few weeks but some still need time to rehabilitate. One needs a hernia operation while others still need intensive care.

If you’d like to support the seized animals, the Penticton SPCA is graciously accepting donations. You can contact the shelter at (250) 493-0136.