25 cats and a severely matted Labrador retriever poodle mix- that’s how many animals were confiscated from a home east of Terrace.
Eileen Drever, senior officer protection for the BC SPCA, said the odor of feces and ammonia was overwhelming, and that the home was not suitable for animals or people.
The dog was heavily matted to the point of not being able to see, or properly close his mouth, and many of the cats were underweight, one injured.
Drever says the dog was distressed when he arrived at the animal center, but was immediately sedated and sent to the vet for an emergency groom.
The mats caused hot spots and resulted in infection, and his toes were becoming deviated due to overgrown nails. The dog was also suffering from an ear infection and dental issues.
Reportedly once he was groomed, the dog changed. Drever says Staff noticed He went from not wanting to be touched to wanting to be wrapped in a blanket and held.
The cats were urine-soaked and distressed. They received treatments and were cleaned, but one had to be euthanized. Drever says 25 cats need to be spayed and neutered, along with many requiring other treatments as well.
Drever says she’s thankful the owner asked for help and recognized he could not give the animals what they needed.
All of the animals are currently in quarantine, with an unknown adoption timeline.