B.C. SPCA seizes 40 distressed sled dogs in West Kootenay

Despite their best efforts to get a Salmo sled dog operation to clean up its act, the B.C. SPCA was forced to move in and seize 40 dogs last week.

“Our officers worked with this individual, providing clear direction on what changes needed to be made and giving him an opportunity to improve conditions,” Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer for the B.C. SPCA, said in the release. The SPCA moved in on Tuesday, Feb. 16 and seized 40 dogs.

In 2012, a Sled Dog Code of Practice was put in place.

“He refused to substantially comply with certain areas of the code that resulted in the dogs meeting the definition of distress under the legislation, and so we moved forward with a warrant to ensure the dogs got the care they required.”

Concerns included inadequate shelter, hypothermia, suspected dehydration and “stereotypical behaviour” witnessed in some of the dogs.

The operator also ran an ad-hoc “behavioural modification” service and boarding service and some of those dogs were also removed.

The dogs have been relocated to a number of SPCA locations where they are getting care.

The investigation continues and the dogs are not available for adoption at this time, the SPCA said.

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