From the Coast Reporter, July 26/03:
....Drever said they were not starving nor suffering from a variety of illnesses, as has been suggested.
From the Vancouver Sun, May 13/03:
The dogs were kept in small, filthy cages Drever said, and several were suffering from different types of illnesses.
From the Chilliwack Progress, May/03:
“These dogs had reached a degree of distress that needed to be relieved right away,” says Dr. Steinebach.
Three of the animals, two female basenjis and a male Chihuahua, were in such poor shape, they were not released from hospital until May 16. “One of the basenjis and the Chihuahua had such badly-infected and abscessed teeth and gums, that after the teeth were removed, you could see through to the sinuses,” says Dr. Steinebach. “Also, the Chihuahua’s jaw had fractured from the infection.” The basenjis each took two hours and the Chihuahua three, for the dental work to be completed. Depending upon the breed, most dogs have 40 teeth. Fifteen had to be removed from the Chihuahua, the rest had already fallen out. He has four left. “Five dogs were tested and found to have hookworms, tapeworms, fleas, dermatitis, and diarrhea,” says Dr. Steinebach. “It’s safe to say, as they were all in close contact with one another, all are infected and being treated.” Of the 10 animals taken, two (a Maltese-cross and a miniature pincher) were found in the home. The others were found in a small, dark, barn and included six Chihuahuas and two basenjis. They were confined to Vari kennels, chicken cages with wire floors, and a partially-folded exercise pen. It was a hot day, and they had no water. “Every dog we released, went straight for water,” says Dr. Steinebach. “One seven-pound Chihuahua drank two bowls full ... and the scene was repeated with each one.” They all he says, fit the definition of distress with regard to housing, disease, pain, and water.
From the Coast Reporter: July 26/03:
Drever said she never indicated that the SPCA would pursue an order of custody.
From foster person, Patricia Josh Best, July 25/03:
We were told that the fostering could take up to two years because the SPCA told us they were going to court.
From Foster person, Nikki Boechler, July 25/03
We were assured that this was going to court for a possession order...