AARCS takes over care of 41 neglected dogs surrendered to Alberta SPCA

Dozens of dogs seized from a rural property in southern Alberta are now in the care of the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS) and will eventually be in need of new homes, once they have recovered from neglect.

"The dogs were all severely matted, and smelled heavily of urine. Many of them have rotten teeth, eye infections, hernias and severe ear infections," AARCS executive director Deanna Thompson said in a statement.

"It is heartbreaking to see any animal in this condition, especially this many from one place."

In total, 40 small-breed dogs and one border collie were seized. The youngest are just pups, the oldest is 11 years old.

Among the animals was one "very pregnant" dog and one that had just given birth to a litter of puppies, according to AARCS.

The dogs' former owner was a breeder who voluntarily surrendered the animals to the Alberta SPCA.

Thompson described the dogs' previous home as a "backyard breeding operation."

The owner and staff of Muttley Crüe Organics volunteered to bathe and groom dozens of the animals, but many will need medical care, dental care, and spay/neuter surgeries before they are ready for adoption.

AARCS estimates that will cost the organization more than $20,000.

The group has posted more information the dogs on its Facebook page.

It's not the first time this year that AARCS has received a large influx of rural dogs suffering from neglect.

In January, it received 201 dogs from an acreage in Milk River, Alta.

Several of those dogs died but others were said to be recovering well.