Police and the B.C. Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) seized over 50 animals from a home near Houston on Perow Loop Aug. 28.
The seizure came after numerous complaints and SPCA orders demanding that the owners fix problems.
SPCA and police seized 18 horses, 18 dogs, 15 birds and two cats, as well as a dirty tank of fish, said Const. Thom.
“The horses were kept in unclean and substandard conditions. Many were underweight and several had overgrown hooves and suspected parasites,” says Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer for the B.C. SPCA.
“There was no food present in any of the enclosures and most of the horses had no access to water.”
The dogs, which included a number of German shepherds, poodle crosses, two Chinese crested dogs, a Newfoundland-cross, a pit bull, a Maltese cross and a bloodhound cross, were being kept in unsanitary conditions and had dental issues and medical concerns, ranging from lacerations to extreme matting. Many of the dogs also appear to be poorly socialized and fearful. Moriarty noted that the 15 birds – cockatiels, love birds, quail, budgies and a conure – were also badly neglected and housed inappropriately.
The animals are all now in the care of the B.C. SPCA and the investigation continues.
“The SPCA would be grateful if any members of the public are able to provide hay for the horses while they are in our care. Arrangements can be made through Smithers Feed Store, in Smithers 250-847-9810.