Offence Warning Notice: Section 11 of the PCA Act requires the SPCA to allow the owner to correct the alleged offence of causing or permitting "distress" before a seizure is permitted. (Read the PCA Act: http://www.qp.gov.bc.ca/statreg/stat/P/96372_01.htm)
Relieving distress in animals
11. If an authorized agent is of the opinion that an animal is in distress and the person responsible for the animal does not promptly take steps that will relieve its distress, the authorized agent may, in accordance with sections 13 and 14, take any action that the authorized agent considers necessary to relieve the animal's distress, including, without limitation, taking custody of the animal and arranging for food, water, shelter and veterinary treatment for it.
The SPCA's Branch Operations Manual confirms and expands on this requirement:
"Many complaints may be resolved by issuing an Offence Warning Notice. When completing this form, indicate what the problem is and specify what you would recommend to correct or improve the situation. Allow a reasonable amount of time to implement these corrections or improvements and then make a follow-up visit to ensure that the person is complying with your recommendations.
Not all situations can be resolved with a warning, but it does give the Special Provincial Constable more room for discretion in dealing with borderline cases.
If an examination prior to action finds animals in good health, do not remove animals from owner's custody just because you have gone to all the trouble of obtaining a warrant.
Do not be "taken in" by the surroundings of the facilities in which the animals are kept. Cosmetics such as mud, filth, manure, garbage, etc. are all less important in your decision as to whether the animal is being deprived of necessities. The physical condition of the animal and its current health status are the prime factors upon which to base you opinion. All other issues can be dealt with later and by other appropriate officials such as the local Health Officer.
Remember that the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act is designed to improve the quality of life for animals deprived of proper basic care.