HSI/Canada Assists Government With Rescue of More Than 400 Neglected Dogs in Historic Seizure in Quebec

MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Sept. 17, 2011) -

Editors Note: There is a photo associated with this press release.

Humane Society International/Canada in partnership with the Ministere de l'Agriculture, des Pecheries et de l'Alimentation du Quebec and local law enforcement rescued more than 400 dogs and puppies from a large-scale commercial breeding facility in Outaouais, Quebec. The animals were seized and removed after multiple investigations indicated dogs were not receiving proper care.

"By far, this was the largest commercial breeding facility, involving some of the most inhumane conditions, that our Animal Rescue Team has ever encountered in Canada," said Lauren Scott, campaigner for Humane Society International/Canada. "Hundreds of dogs were denied their most basic needs and proper care and lacked adequate socialization."

The seizure followed an inspection by authorities in which numerous infractions were observed in regards to the security, and welfare of the animals.

The rescued dogs were promptly transported to an emergency shelter in Quebec, where they will be cared for, and checked by a team of veterinarians, and given any necessary veterinary care. Humane Society International and MAPAQ, with assistance from the Oceanographic Environmental Research Society, Red Rover, and the Ottawa Humane Society worked throughout the night to assess, examine and catalogue the animals.

The historic seizure comes days before the Government of Quebec is expected to release the province's updated animal welfare (P-42) regulations. Animal welfare groups believe these updates will help to crack down on the province's worst puppy mill operations, and are also eagerly anticipating the upcoming announcement of the increased penalties to accompany these regulations. HSI/Canada commends MAPAQ for its commitment to improve animal welfare regulations in Quebec.

This operation is made possible in part from funding, much-needed sheltering supplies, and pet food by PetSmart Charities®, Nutrience (Rolf C. Hagen Inc.), Nestle Purina Pet Care, Kane Vet Supplies, Hunter Brand Inc. and Messageries Dynamiques.

High-quality photos and video of the rescued animals at the shelter will be available shortly via request to the media contact below.

Humane Society International/Canada is a leading force for animal protection, representing tens of thousands of members and constituents across the country. HSI/Canada has active programs in companion animals, wildlife and habitat protection, marine mammal preservation and farm animal welfare. HSI/Canada is proud to be a part of Humane Society International—one of the largest animal protection organizations in the world, with more than eleven million members and constituents globally—on the Web at hsicanada.ca.

To view the photo associated with this release, please visit the following link: http://www.marketwire.com/library/20110917-HSI800.jpg.