Two of the Pomeranians seized from an irresponsible breeder in Vernon (photo courtesy of the B.C. SPCA)

By Liam Verster

Poor Living Conditions

Over 30 Pomeranian dogs and puppies seized by irresponsible breeder

Aug 13, 2024 | 11:03 AM

The B.C. SPCA rescued 32 Pomeranian dogs and puppies from a Vernon property.

Animal protection officers seized the dogs on August 3 from an irresponsible breeder who was keeping the animals in an unventilated, non-air conditioned garage on the property.

Three of the adult dogs were pregnant, and four of the puppies were sick with canine parvovirus, commonly known as “parvo.” The B.C. SPCA said two of the puppies died shortly after bing rescued.

“Canine parvovirus is a highly contagious disease that requires intensive around-the-clock veterinary care,” Eileen Drever, the BC SPCA’s senior officer protection and stakeholder relations, stated.

“Puppies are particularly susceptible and even with the best treatment, a good outcome is not guaranteed.”

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She noted vaccinations and proper hygiene can stop the animals from catching and spreading the virus, but the animals seized from Vernon were kept in pens that weren’t adequately cleaned and sanitized so all the dogs were exposed to the virus.

The SPCA said the dogs were kept in pens with wood chips for makeshift bedding, that there were feces and vomit in many areas, and that the dog’s food and water dishes were contaminated with flies and wasps.

The SPCA added one of the puppies was only two days old and being kept in a separate wire cage by itself, and that two of the adult females had post-whelping hair loss. All the adult dogs also had matted hair and dental disease.

The investigation into the breeder was launched after a person who purchased a puppy that soon became ill and succumbed to parvo reported the breeder to the Animal Helpline.

“This is another strong reminder that people need to do their homework when they make the decision to bring a puppy into their home and family,” Drever said.

“You should always ask to see how the dogs and puppies are being housed and what condition they are in. No one should be supporting irresponsible breeders.”

The investigation into the breeder was ongoing as of August 13, and the SPCA said it needs foster homes for the dogs, though did not state when the dogs would be ready for adoption.

The animals require urgent medical care and the SPCA is accepting donations to support the animals, with the organization saying an anonymous “dedicated animal lover” had already agreed to match donations of up to $20,000 to their care.