SPCA Seizes Livestock from Langley Farm
January 28, 2005. For immediate release. BC SPCA animal protection officers executed a warrant earlier this week to relieve the distress of hundreds of sick and injured livestock on a Langley farm. SPCA cruelty officers and accompanying veterinarians examined more than 300 pigs, 150 sheep and several horses on the farm. "Sadly many of the animals were in critical condition and had to be euthanized immediately to relieve their suffering," says Senior Animal Protection Officer Eileen Drever. "A large number of the piglets were suffering from very painful skin lesions, upper respiratory ailments and body parts which had been chewed off. "

Drever adds that SPCA officers would have seized the 150 sheep on the property, but most of the animals were pregnant and moving them would have caused more stress, resulting in the possible death of the lambs. Officers founds a number of lambs, already deceased, strewn in a field on the property. The SPCA ordered the owner to take immediate steps to address the conditions where the sheep are being housed and the SPCA closely monitored the situation to ensure that the changes were made. "The floor of the barn was thick with manure and the animals had inadequate food, water and bedding," says Drever. "While it would not have been safe to move the pregnant animals, we have made sure their shelter is now clean and safe and they are being properly cared for. We will continue to monitor the care of these animals as the investigation continues."

SPCA animal protection officers seized one sow, six horses and one donkey, who were in distress as a result of inadequate food, water, shelter and exposure to hazardous objects. The animals are in SPCA custody and are being cared for at an undisclosed location in the Lower Mainland. The SPCA cruelty investigation continues and charges are pending in the case.

Further information:
Eileen Drever, Senior Animal Protection Office: (604) 709-4670, (604) 834-7854 (cell);
Lorie Chortyk, Community Relations Manager, BC SPCA:
(604) 647-1316, 1-800-665-1868, or 830-7179 (cell);

Note: If you would like to arrange photos or videotape of the seized animals, please contact Eileen Drever at the contact information above.