Calgary, AB – During an Alberta SPCA investigation at a Southern Alberta rural property, 41 dogs were taken from the property and brought into the care of Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society. The animals include 40 small breed dogs and a border collie ranging in age from puppies to 11 years old and included a very pregnant dog, and one dog that had just given birth to puppies. The former owner of the dogs was a breeder who voluntarily surrendered the dogs to the Alberta SPCA.
“The dogs were all severely matted, and smelled heavily of urine. Many of them have rotten teeth, eye infections, hernias and severe ear infections,” said Deanna Thompson, Executive Director of AARCS. ”It is heartbreaking to see any animal in this condition, especially this many from one place.”
The dogs have been placed with the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society and will eventually be placed for adoption. Local Calgary business owner Annie Cole, owner of Muttley Crüe Organics, graciously donated free baths and grooming for the dogs. Her and her staff came in on their day off to groom 29 of the 41 dogs taking five groomers over nine hours to complete.
The Alberta SPCA continues its investigation into the dogs’ care. “We are very happy that the Alberta SPCA was able to step in and that we were able provide these animals with a second chance at a life they deserve as beloved family pets,” says Thompson. “We hope that the public realizes that when they purchase a dog at a petstore or online with little or no information of where that puppy came from, that they are supporting backyard breeding operations such as this. One must take the time to think about the parents of that ‘puppy in the window’ or cute puppy pictures online.”
It is going to take some time before these animals are up for adoption as many require extensive medical care, dental work, spay/neuter surgeries and foster homes will work on getting to the know the animals to ensure proper placement in adoptive homes. It is estimated it will cost the organization over $20,000 to provide the care needed for these animals.
To donate towards the care of these animals – please consider making a donation to AARCS.
