B.C. SPCA seizes dogs in North Okanagan, alleges neglect and substandard conditions

The B.C. SPCA seized nine dogs, including six puppies, from a North Okanagan property on Wednesday, alleging that they were being kept in substandard conditions, neglected, and exposed to freezing temperatures.

The golden retriever puppies, two golden retriever adults and a pregnant Australian shepherd were found in a basement, amid a build-up of excrement and urine, according to the agency.

"When our animal protection officers arrived in response to a complaint, they found dogs and puppies in a basement without heat or insulation," said Eileen Drever, a senior officer with theB.C.SPCA, in a news release.

Drever described four of the puppies as shivering and huddled for warmth in one part of the basement, while two more were in a separate area with the Australian shepherd, which was chained to a wall, also shivering.

"They had no bedding except for a bit of dirty hay," she said. "There was a small amount of dog food on the floor, but the only accessible water was dirty and in an unclean bowl."

The B.C. SPCA said with the wind chill, it was 24 C outside at the time of the seizure.

The dogs were taken to a veterinarian for an examination. The agency said they are not currently available for adoption.

Drever said that once the investigation is complete, the B.C. SPCA will recommend charges underthe Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, which could include amaximum penaltyof$75,000, prohibition from owning animals and up to two years in prison.