A Vancouver Island dog breeder has surrendered 21 pugs and French bulldogs to the B.C. SPCA following an animal cruelty investigation.
The B.C. SPCA said the dogs, which range in age from six weeks to six years old, were housed in unacceptable living conditions.
“Some dogs need costly palate surgery, nasal surgery, and dental work: eating and breathing is a constant challenge,” the SPCA said in a statement. Several have infections in their tear ducts and ears, and one may need its tail amputated.
Surgery costs alone are expected to exceed $13,000, and the organization is seeking donations to help offset medical costs.
The SPCA said the breeder, who it did not name, has previously surrendered animals to the organization.
The dogs are being cared for at SPCA branches in Comox and Cowichan and at foster homes, and will be put up for adoption following their recovery.
“The B.C. SPCA is continuing to advocate for breeder regulations that would outline standards of care for dogs and cats in this largely unregulated industry,” said Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer for the B.C. SPCA.
“We are still waiting on the provincial government to enact these important regulations.”
