SPCA seizes 29 dogs and puppies from Squamish breeder

The B.C. SPCA says it seized 29 dogs and puppies from a breeder in Squamish, B.C., Wednesday.

The 18 dogs and 11 puppies seized included Old English sheepdogs, Coton de Tulear, bearded collies and a Tibetan terrier.

Marcie Moriarty,chief prevention and enforcement officer for the B.C. SPCA, said the seizure was made from a private residence that appeared to be operating as a breeder.

"These operations [are typically] a larger backyard-scale operation, and in this case, that's what we found," she said.

According to the SPCA, the dogs were badly matted and were suffering from several conditions, including:

• Ear infections.
• Skin infections.
• Severe dental disease.
• Overgrown nails.

The SPCAsaid the investigation is ongoing but may include cruelty charges.

Moriarty was not able to confirm the identity of the breeder, other than that she is female and has a history with animal control in Squamish going back at least five years.

The dogs are in care at the West Vancouver shelter. They're not available for adoption while the legal process is ongoing.