Former breeder surrenders 45 neglected Havanese dogs to SPCA

Nearly four dozen Havanese and Havanese-cross dogs on Vancouver Island have been surrendered to the B.C. SPCA by a former breeder.

The 45 dogs ranged in age from one-and-a-half years old to 15 years, and were all in varying states of neglect. Most had coats that were matted with feces and urine, and the dogs had been living in a home with unacceptably high levels of ammonia.

The dogs were surrendered last Thursday.

“Our staff have spent the past few days assessing the physical and psychological well-being of the dogs and providing immediate medical care for any issues,” said B.C. SPCA spokeswoman Marcie Moriarty.

“The dogs were extremely filthy and matted, so extensive bathing and grooming was necessary before we could even assess their condition.”

The breeder, who had stopped selling five years ago, will likely face animal cruelty charges, which are being recommended by the rescue organization’s investigators.

Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, those found guilty are subject to fines of up to $75,000 or imprisonment of up to two years or both. Under the Criminal Code, a conviction could include imprisonment of up to five years or a fine of up to $10,000.

Moriarty said the surrender highlighted the need for strict regulations of animal breeders and standards of care.

“Whether it involves a puppy mill where a breeder is putting profits before the welfare of the animals or a situation where an individual becomes overwhelmed with the number of animals in their care, we need to have standards for breeders and a way for members of the public to identify legitimate breeders from those who are not providing good care and welfare for their animals,” she said in a statement.

The dogs remain in recovery at a number of SPCA shelters on Vancouver Island and are not available for adoption at this time. Once the dogs have recovered, adoption information will be shared online.

Donations are now being accepted for the emergency treatment of the Havanese dogs and other animals in care. Donations can be made online.

The 45 Havanese and Havanese-cross dogs were all neglected, with coats that were extremely matted with feces and urine. They were living in a place with high levels of ammonia.