25 cats and a severely matted labrador retriever poodle mix from a property east of Terrace were rescued by the BC SPCA after the owner called for help.
According to Senior Officer Protection and Stakeholders Relations Eileen Drever, the smell of ammonia and feces was strong.
“Many of the kittens were noticeably underweight and one of the cats had an untreated rear leg injury,” she said.
The dog had difficulty moving because of the mats and was found lying on a mattress in the living room.”
She added the dog’s matting was the worst she’s seen in her 45 years with the organization and was covered in urine and feces.
“When he arrived at the animal centre, he was so scared, trembling, panting, and pacing. He didn’t want anyone to touch him,” said Drever.
The cats’ fur wasn’t better and took some time before warming up to SPCA staff.
“Several began to lean in for back scratches and even the most anxious of the cats began to purr. It took three people six hours just to complete this step of their care,” she added.
All 25 cats and kittens need to be spayed and neutered, several with dental issues, and one with a tennis ball sized abdominal hernia which will require extensive surgery to repair.
One of the cats was put down due to being in critical distress.
After the dog was groomed, Drever said he started wanting attention after carrying the matted fur.
The animals will remain in quarantine before becoming available for adoption.
Anyone who wishes to donate towards the animals’ care can do so to the BC SPCA on its website.
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