HSI/Canada Helps Rescue Nearly 80 Dogs and Puppies in Abitibi-Temiscamingue

MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Oct. 30, 2013) - Nearly 80 neglected dogs and puppies kept in inhumane conditions were rescued in Quebec's Abitibi-Temiscamingue region Wednesday. The rescued dogs included mostly large breeds such as shepherds and huskies. Humane Society International/Canada assisted the Ministère de l'Agriculture, des Pêcheries et de l'Alimentation du Québec in the rescue.

Ewa Demianowicz, campaigner for HSI/Canada, said: "It was devastating to witness the terrible conditions in which these dogs were kept for so long. The dogs were seriously emaciated and had clearly been denied proper access to food and water. Several dogs also have serious skin problems. The dogs were housed outside, some of them with no shelter and many roaming around the unfenced premises. With cold temperatures fast approaching, many of these dogs may not have survived much longer."

Once seized from the premises, the dogs were transported to an emergency shelter where they are being evaluated by veterinarians and receiving care from staff and volunteers. In the coming weeks, the matter will go before the courts and a case against the owner will be made.

The rescue took place only one week after the Quebec government unveiled a new permit system for cat and dog owners, requiring that owners of more than 15 cats or dogs obtain a permit. Each applicant must provide specific information on the conditions of the facility in which the animals are kept. The government can refuse to issue, suspend, or withdraw a permit.

HSI/Canada believes the new permit system will help with preventing animal abuse but would like to see it strengthened, notably by including mandatory inspections prior to issuing permits and setting a cap of 50 animals allowed in one facility. HSI/Canada also urges the government to use funds derived from the permit system to support SPCAs and SPAs; enforcement of animal welfare laws remains a serious issue in Quebec.

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 11 million members and constituents globally-on the Web at hsicanada.ca.