The BC SPCA says it has seized 30 dachshunds from a breeder in the Okanagan, stating the dogs were living in terrible conditions.
The dachshunds range in age from four months to five years, with the SPCA noting they aren’t currently available for adoption.
The dogs, which are being cared for at an undisclosed location, were brought to the SPCA’s attention after a concerned call to its helpline.
The animal organization went to investigate the property in the Cherryville area.
“The dogs were found to have dental disease, overgrown nails, exposure to high ammonia levels and were living in unsanitary conditions,” the SPCA said.
“They were kept in small crates; the little bedding present was soiled with urine and feces.”
SCPA spokesperson Eileen Drever said the dogs aren’t socialized and are fearful.
“When our animal protection officers arrived on site, the smell of ammonia permeated the house,” she said. “They found that the dogs were primarily kept in a basement where urine was soaked into the wooden shelves holding dog crates.
“Although they had occasional outside access, it was clear that these little ones spent most of their time without proper ventilation or comfort.”
It’s suspected that some of the dogs may also be pregnant, with one of them giving birth to five pups last night.
Drever said the dachshunds are “under the care of a veterinarian and are receiving all the love and attention they deserve.”