SPCA Rescues Badly-Neglected Dogs in Prince George
December 19, 2005. For immediate release. BC SPCA Animal Protection Officers in Prince George seized two badly-neglected Pitbull-type dogs in a recent investigation after their owner left them chained outdoors in severe temperatures. The officers also recovered the body of a third, deceased dog on the property.

"The dogs were chained outside in freezing temperatures without adequate protection from the elements," said BC SPCA Animal Protection Office Debbie Goodine. "The areas where they were kept were covered in feces, with no dry place for them to lay."

The severely decomposed body of an emaciated third dog had been left in the area, living next to the remaining two dogs for nearly three weeks.

"It was a gruesome situation," said Officer Goodine. "Unfortunately the female dog we took into custody was in such a terrible psychological state that we had no option but to euthanize her to end her suffering, but the male has done amazingly well and is currently up for adoption at the SPCA in Quesnel."

The SPCA investigation into the case continues and charges of animal cruelty are pending. If convicted, the owner faces a maximum fine of $2,000, up to six months in jail and/or a prohibition of owning animals.

Further information:
Debbie Goodine, BC SPCA Animal Protection Officer, 250-562-5511;
Lorie Chortyk, Community Relations Manager, BC SPCA:
(604) 647-1316, 1-800-665-1868, or 830-7179 (cell);