B.C. SPCA and Nanaimo RCMP were on hand as a pair of dogs were seized in Nanaimo last night.
The SPCA received concerns regarding two mixed-breed dogs and attended with assistance of police. According to Tina Heary, B.C. SPCA senior animal protection officer, SPCA constables can request RCMP assistance for purposes of peacekeeping. Under the lead of an SPCA member, two dogs were seized and were immediately taken to a veterinary hospital on Vancouver Island. Heary described them as “emaciated.”
“We’re always very concerned when there are dogs that are outdoors without adequate protection from the elements and lack of shelter and minimal to no body fat,” said Heary. “That can become an extremely urgent situation quickly. This particular week for example, [forecasters were] calling for potential snow, so again, that can be a critical situation fast.”
Heary said the dogs are currently in stable condition, but still under assessment. The priority has been getting the dogs health checks and full examinations from veterinarians and determining rehabilitative steps that will be needed, she said.
Const. Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman, said the incident took place in south Nanaimo and police will work with SPCA during the investigation, which is in its preliminary stages.
“Based on the information we have so far, yes, we would be considering recommending charges to Crown counsel,” said Heary, although she said the SPCA hasn’t yet done so.
reporter@nanaimobulletin.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter