57 animals seized

Photo: Contributed - BC SPCA

Fifty-seven animals are in better hands after a Surrey woman surrendered her animals to the SPCA, following complaints of animal neglect.

The animals were found suffering from severe states of malnutrition and living in substandard conditions.

The animals included 35 dogs, 16 horses and six cats. The horses suffered from chipped, cracked and overgrown hooves.

The SPCA told CTV it has a history with the owner of the animals, but has had no issues recently. Animal cruelty charges are being considered.

“I think this is a combination of animal hoarding and irresponsible breeding,” said Marcie Moriarty, chief enforcement officer with the SPCA.

The animals were transferred to the Vancouver SPCA and hospital for examination, but will eventually be distributed to shelters across the Lower Mainland for care and adoption.

“Whenever we have a large seizure of animals, it puts added strain on our financial and staff resources,” said Moriarty. “The BC SPCA would be grateful for any donations to help support the ongoing care and treatment for these animals and we hope that new, loving homes can be found for them as soon as possible.”

The SPCA is asking the public for donations to help cover the estimated $20,000 needed to care for the 57 animals. It has already raised more than $13,000. 

- with files from CTV Vancouver