B.C. SPCA seizes 84 cats and dogs from Surrey breeder

The B.C. SPCA says it has seized 84 cats and dogs at a breeding and boarding facility in Surrey — an increase from the 70 it said earlier on Tuesday. 

According to the SPCA's Marcie Moriarty, the animals that met the organization's definition of distress and had to be rescued included 69 cats and 15 dogs.

"At this stage there's not any detailed reports from the veterinarian with respect to the health concerns, but I can say there have been both environmental concerns noted and some health concerns," she said.

There were many different breeds of the animals seized from the facility, the SPCA said. The dogs were mostly smaller breeds like French bulldogs, Pomeranians and chihuahuas. The cats were short-haired exotic breeds and Persian. 

Moriarty said the SPCA's priority is to have all of the animals examined by a vet. 

"They will be triaged within our facility and the animal owner will be given an opportunity to dispute the seizure," she said.

The SPCA said it will continue its investigation, which could lead to charges being laid.

Puppy mill recently seized

The seizure comes after the animal welfare agency took 66 dogs from a Langley puppy mill on Feb. 4.

Those dogs are doing great, but require further treatment before they can be adopted, said spokeswoman Lorie Chortyk.

"They've all been groomed and bathed and they're undergoing ongoing treatment," she said.

Some of the dogs fear humans because they spent their entire lives in cages and will need rehabilitation, Chortyk explained.

"But they're amazing animals and as soon as they're healthy, we'll put them up for adoption and hopefully they'll get amazing homes," she said.