Forty-four dogs were rescued from an animal hoarder in Victoria Wednesday, according to the BC SPCA.
The organization found one dog dead, and rescued 35 adult dogs, and nine puppies from the Brentwood Bay home.
Lorie Chortyk, general manager of community relations for the BC SPCA, said in a statement the dogs were neglected by the owner, adding that the person is not a breeder, but had sold dogs occasionally.
“In this case the person hoarded animals and allowed them to breed unchecked in the home. The number had escalated to the point where the animals were not getting adequate care and the living conditions jeopardized the welfare and safety of the animals,” Chortyk said.
Chortyk said they were aware of the alleged dog hoarder and the home had been previously inspected, however conditions at the time were not bad enough to warrant legal action.
The dogs are being treated for parasites and are receiving care for medical issues.
The BC SPCA said the dogs will not be available for adoption until legal custody issues are finalized, likely in February.
