Former breeder surrenders 45 ‘extremely filthy and matted’ dogs to BC SPCA

The BC SPCA says it is caring for 45 neglected Havanese and Havanese-cross dogs surrendered by a former breeder outside of Victoria on April 12.

The organization says the dogs’ coats were badly mated with feces and urine, and that they were living in unacceptable conditions inside the home due to high levels of ammonia.

The SPCA said the former breeder voluntarily gave up the dogs, which range in age from one-and-a-half to 15 years old.

“Our staff have spent the past few days assessing the physical and psychological well-being of the dogs and providing immediate medical care for any issues,” said chief prevention and enforcement officer Marcie Moriarity in a media release.

GALLERY: Some of the dogs being cared for by the BC SPCA

“The dogs were extremely filthy and matted, so extensive bathing and grooming was necessary before we could even assess their condition.”

The SPCA says the dogs’ owner had stopped selling animals about five years ago, but that the case highlights the need for new breeder regulations being developed in the province.

The dogs are being cared for at a number of SPCA shelters on Vancouver Island but are not currently up for adoption. People interested in adopting the dogs can check the BC SPCA website for updates.