A severely matted Labrador retriever-poodle mix and 25 cats have been rescued from a home in British Columbia, where conditions were deemed uninhabitable. The animals’ owner, who sought help from the BC SPCA, was unable to provide proper care, prompting the rescue operation.
The scene inside the home, located between Prince George and Terrace, was described as overwhelming. “The smell of ammonia and feces was overpowering,” said Eileen Drever, senior officer at the BC SPCA. “The environment was unsuitable for both humans and animals, and many of the kittens were underweight, with one suffering from an untreated leg injury.”
Among the most severe cases was the dog, who struggled to move due to the extreme matting of his fur. Drever noted that the dog’s condition was among the worst she had seen in her 45 years with the organization. His fur, matted with urine and feces, was so severe that it impaired his vision and prevented his mouth from fully closing. He was found lying on a mattress, clearly in distress.
The dog was immediately rushed for emergency grooming, which required sedation. The matting had caused skin infections, hot spots, and nail deformities that will require ongoing care. The dog was also suffering from an ear infection and dental issues. His transformation post-grooming was described as “remarkable,” with the dog going from being fearful of human contact to seeking affection.
The 25 cats and kittens were also in poor condition, with some suffering from urine-soaked fur and extreme fear. BC SPCA staff took six hours to clean and provide initial care for them. Some cats were found to have dental problems, and one kitten needed surgery for a large abdominal hernia. Tragically, one cat was in critical condition and had to be euthanized.
Despite the difficult start, there is hope for the animals’ recovery. All are currently in quarantine and receiving the necessary medical care. The timeline for adoption remains uncertain, but their chances of a brighter future are improving with each passing day.