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Smithers store helps Houston horses

The BC SPCA took 53 animals, including 18 horses, 18 large and small-breed dogs, 15 birds and two cats from a rural property east of Houston
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The BC SPCA has seized 53 animals

The Smithers Feed Store is helping out the animals from the Houston area who were seized by the BC SPCA last Thursday.

Part owner of the store Doug Veenstra said people can come in and buy some food for the animals and they will make sure it gets to them.

“We are a convenient spot for people who have livestock, for people who get it (animal welfare), for those who are tied to livestock,” he said.

The BC SPCA took 53 animals, including 18 horses, 18 large and small-breed dogs, 15 birds and two cats from a rural property east of Houston. Numerous fish kept in filthy conditions were also removed.

Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer for the BC SPCA said the horses were kept in unclean and substandard conditions. Many were underweight and several had overgrown hooves and suspected parasites. She also said the most of the animals had no water or food.

“This was an individual we have dealt with before,” said BC SPCA spokesperson Lorie Chortyk. “This is a property that has been of concern. We always want to give people an opportunity to rectify situations but if not, we remove the animals for their own safety.”

The dogs are being treated at the Prince George's SPCA and the horses are being looked after at various foster homes.

For those that need a charitable receipt, donations can be made online at spca.bc.ca/donate.

 



Marisca Bakker

About the Author: Marisca Bakker

Marisca was born and raised in Ontario and moved to Smithers almost ten years ago on a one-year contract.
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