A Saanich man has been charged with animal cruelty under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, following a B.C. SPCA investigation.
B.C. SPCA constables removed 22 small-breed dogs, including Chihuahuas, Pomeranians and spaniels, from the residence of Warren “Grant” Rowley between December 2014 and February 2015.
The SPCA says the dogs were kept in substandard living conditions, with no natural light or ventilation, among feces, urine and clutter.
Some dogs were found in a small shed while others were confined to a bathroom.
Rowley voluntarily surrendered 10 of the 22 dogs to the B.C. SPCA at the beginning of the investigation but the remaining 12 dogs were seized under a warrant in February after Rowley failed to comply with SPCA orders regarding untreated dental disease, matting and unsuitable living conditions.
All of the dogs taken into SPCA care were treated and adopted into new, loving homes. Rowley’s first court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 19 at the Victoria Law Courts.