The BC SPCA has seized 20 small dogs from a Chilliwack property.
According to the organization the dogs were “badly neglected” and were part of an operation that sold puppies for profit through local brokers.
Chief prevention and enforcement officer Marcie Moriarty said the dogs were small, popular breeds that can be brokered easily.
Some of the breeds included Maltese-Yorkie crosses, Pomeranians, Papillion and Pekingese.
The BC SPCA says many were puppies, ranging in age from one day to six months old.
“The dogs were living in areas with high ammonia levels, were soaked in urine, with long nails and badly matted fur. Most of the older dogs will require extensive dental surgery,” a release said.
Moriarty said the seizure highlights why the new legislation passed this spring to regulate dog and cat breeding in B.C. is “essential.”
“We were able to intervene as soon as we became aware of this situation, but without regulations in this industry, substandard breeders who are not reported continue to operate and the animals are the ones who suffer,” she said.
The dogs were voluntarily surrendered and are undergoing veterinary treatment.