BC SPCA centres on Vancouver Island are currently caring for over 30 new animals, including a litter of puppies, after the owner surrendered them.
Adult cats, four kittens, two pitbull terrier mix moms and a total of 16 puppies were picked up in Nanaimo between July 17 and 21.
“This is yet another case where an animal guardian became overwhelmed by the needs of the animals in their care and uncontrolled breeding caused the already large population to grow rapidly,” said Eileen Drever, senior officer for protection.
According to the BC SPCA, the home was unsanitary, all the animals had flea infestations and there was an inadequate amount of food and water for the animals.
Drever said it was obvious the animals had not received veterinary care.
Most of the animals are being cared for at the Nanaimo animal centre, one mother and her 11 puppies were transferred to qathet and some of the adult cats were sent to Parksville.
Bonnie Pequin, manager of the Nanaimo animal centre, said all animals require flea treatment and the puppies and some of the cats are being treated for parasites.
“One of the puppies developed a growing lump on his head, which a veterinarian is closely monitoring,” Pequin said, adding that a follow up appointment has been arranged.
The mother of the 11 puppies, who is now named Bea, was very thin when she arrived and is now on a supervised re-feeding plan to help her gain weight. Her puppies’ nursing is being supplemented with formula and wet food.
The puppies are only three weeks old but will be available for adoption in about five weeks once they are weaned.
The rest of the animals will be available for adoption in the coming weeks, the BC SPCA said.
Pequin said all animals are friendly except one of the moms, who has been named Lottie, who is fearful.
Given the large intake of animals, the BC SPCA is asking for donations to support the medical treatment of the group. Click here for more information.
