PRINCE RUPERT, B.C. – The BC SPCA is recommending animal cruelty charges to Crown Counsel after rescuing a dog near Prince Rupert that was found in severe neglect, calling the situation a “heartbreaking sight.”
On November 18, an animal protection officer responded to a complaint about animal cruelty near a remote property east of Prince Rupert. They found a heavily-matted, shivering seven-year-old poodle mix lying in the snow. The owner subsequently surrendered the dog to the SPCA.
Rescue and Recovery
The regional manager for animal protection services, Alex Schare, described the dog’s condition: “The snow around the dog had turned brown because of how dirty her fur was. It was obvious that her basic needs had not been met in quite some time.”
The dog, now named Pixie, was immediately taken to the BC SPCA in Prince Rupert. Manager Kristy Maier said Pixie had to be sedated to remove the matting, a process that took two hours.
“Her fur was full of dirt, feces and urine—I honestly can’t imagine how uncomfortable she was wearing all that filth,” Maier said.
Further examination revealed more serious issues: Pixie was unable to put weight on her left rear leg. An X-ray showed an old injury that had not healed properly, resulting in damage to the tendons above the knee. The injury is severe enough that surgery will be required to amputate the leg.
A Testament to Resilience
Despite the traumatic circumstances, the staff reports that Pixie’s spirit remains bright. Maier said Pixie was friendly the moment she arrived at the animal centre.
“She loves people and all the attention she has been getting,” Maier added. “She wants to be with our staff all the time, demanding snuggles, and Pixie even kept falling asleep in the purse of one of our staff members—it was the cutest thing.”
Pixie is now in the care of a foster home for recovery, and Maier is hopeful that she will be available for adoption by mid-December.
In the meantime, the BC Prosecution Service will evaluate the case to determine whether charges related to animal cruelty, which are punishable by fines, jail time, and prohibitions on keeping animals, will be laid.
