BC SPCA rescues eight puppies, four adult dogs in distress on Vancouver Island

Four adult dogs and eight three-month-old puppies were recently seized from a breeder on Vancouver Island, the SPCA said this week.

According to the SPCA, the 12 dogs were in “distress” when they were rescued, and were seized due to lack of veterinary care. Officials said there were also concerns that the dogs had been exposed to canine parvovirus, a highly contagious and potentially deadly virus that causes gastrointestinal illness in dogs.

The seized animals were Chihuahua crosses, with one Shih Tzu-cross.

One of the rescued puppies (BC SPCA)

“In response to a public complaint, our officers attended the property on February 2, and found several concerns, including suspected parvovirus, signs of neurological issues, lameness, eye infections, severe dental disease, and ear infections,” said BC SPCA officer Eileen Drever.

The animals were taken to local veterinary facilities for examination and treatment and are receiving on-going care at the BC SPCA in Victoria.

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Drever said the pregnant females and mothers with pups will be transferred to SPCA foster homes for around-the-clock support.

In the meantime, the investigation into the case continues and the SPCA said the dogs are not available for adoption at this time.