Dogs found in 'horrific living conditions' seized by B.C. SPCA

The B.C. SPCA has removed two dozen small dogs and puppies along withsix catsfrom a puppy breeding operation near Lillooet, B.C., aftera tip came in that the animals were suffering from severe neglect.

"The dogs were found in really horrific living conditions, just filthy," said Lorie Chortyk, with the B.C. SPCA.

Some of the dogs were being kept in chicken coops filled with chicken and dog feces, while another dog and two puppies were being kept in a rodent cage.

The dogs' breeds ranged from 15 Havanese and Havanese-cross dogs, eight Yorkie-cross dogs and one emaciated Husky cross.

B.C. SPCA officers seized 20 of the animals on April 5.The rest were surrendered this past weekend as part of the ongoing investigation.

• Dozens of farm animals seizedin Mission, officers pepper-sprayed
• SPCAseizes animals fromLangleyrescue society for a thirdtime
• Over 2 dozen animals seized from Burns Lake property

The animals are being cared for at the B.C. SPCA's Kelowna and Kamloopsbranches.

The agency is recommending charges of animal cruelty and is asking people to do their research when looking to buy a pet.

"Unfortunately, there are people who make their living, their profits from animal cruelty and if there is no market for it, then there won't be this kind of cruelty going on," she said.

Chortyk asks that people not buy pets online and that theyvisit the place where the animals are being kept.

• B.C. targets irresponsible breeders with new legislation to protect puppies, kittens