![This dog was one of several animals seized by the BC SPCA from a camp in the Kootenays.](https://infotel.ca/news/medialibrary/image/hd-mediaitemid100870-7378.jpg?q=90)
The dog was one of several animals seized by the BC SPCA from a camp in the Kootenays.
Image credit: SUBMITTED/BC SPCA
October 4, 2023 – 12:31 p.m.
Nine dogs and two cats were seized by the SPCA from an individual with a history of animal cruelty.
The organization received a report from the RCMP in mid-September regarding a squatter on Crown land in possession of animals “possibly in distress,” according to a BC SPCA news release issued today Today, October 4.
The owner of the animals has reportedly been accused of animal cruelty in the past. An animal welfare investigation was therefore opened. Animal protection officers attended the camp with the assistance of RCMP officers. The identity of the squatter has been confirmed as well as the fact that he is banned for life from owning animals in other provinces.
“All of the animals on site, including nine dogs and two cats, were living near piles of rotting flesh from deer and elk and did not have access to adequate shelter,” the statement said. “Each was tied to a nearby tree with little food and only dirty water available to them. Many ties were tangled.
The dogs and cats were taken to a veterinarian. Many of them suffer health problems due to poor living conditions, including infections and matted fur covered in tree sap. The animals were also “undersocialized and fearful.”
“It is truly infuriating to see this individual’s complete disregard for animal welfare,” Eileen Drever of the British Columbia SPCA said in the release. “If someone is really struggling to care for their pet, we have supports and programs in place that can benefit both the pet and their guardian. But this situation is very different. It is deliberately choosing, again and again, to let animals suffer without concern for their well-being. »
Drever said resources are currently limited with large numbers of animals needing homes.
“When we also face repeat offenders like this, who constantly put animals at risk, it really puts a strain on society. We will recommend charges against this person.
Drever said a “squatter on Crown land” is someone who is “living illegally on the land” and only says the camp’s location is in the East Kootenays.
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