AARCS takes over care of 41 neglected dogs surrendered to Alberta SPCA

Dozens of dogs seized from a rural property in southern Alberta are now in the care of the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS) and will eventually be inneed of new homes, once they have recovered from neglect.

"The dogs were all severely matted, and smelled heavily of urine. Many of them have rotten teeth, eye infections, hernias and severe ear infections," AARCS executive directorDeanna Thompson said in a statement.

"It is heartbreaking to see any animal in this condition, especially this many from one place."

In total, 40small-breed dogs and one border collie were seized. The youngest are just pups, the oldest is 11 years old.

Among the animals was one "very pregnant" dog and one that had just given birth to a litter of puppies, according to AARCS.

The dogs' former owner was a breeder who voluntarily surrendered the animalsto the Alberta SPCA.

Thompson described the dogs' previous home as a"backyard breeding operation."

The owner and staff ofMuttley Cre Organics volunteered to bathe and groom dozens of the animals, but many will need medical care, dental care,and spay/neuter surgeries before they are ready for adoption.

AARCSestimates thatwill cost the organization more than $20,000.

The grouphas posted more information the dogs on itsFacebookpage.

It's not the first time this year that AARCS has received a largeinflux of rural dogs suffering from neglect.

In January, it received 201 dogs from an acreage in Milk River, Alta.

Several of those dogs died but others were said to be recovering well.