96 dogs removed from home were terrified, Cornwall's RSPCA says
The charity says the Shih-Tzus were found to be matted and flea-infested
Last updated 4th Oct 2022
Cornwall's RSPCA has told us 96 dogs, removed from a home in the South West, were found in a poor condition as a result of over-breeding.
The charity says the rescued Shih-Tzus were matted with faeces, flea-infested and terrified.
The centre at St Columb is caring for 11 of the animals, while the rest have gone to other sites.
The branch, which is not funded by the RSPA, says looking after the dogs comes at a cost.
Bosses have repeated their appeal to support their Just Giving appeal, saying they need our help now more than ever.
Posting on Facebook, the RSPCA said: "Matted with faeces, flea-infested, urine-stained and terrified, this is the result of over-breeding. We are devastated to see the results of a case where 𝟵𝟲 Shih-Tzus were removed from one home.
"Our hearts are breaking for these dogs, but we're determined to give them the future that they deserve.
"These poor dogs have been completely let down by humans for the benefit of breeding and selling puppies.
"We took in 11 of these dogs, all of which vary in age, medical and behavioural needs.
"They are all absolutely terrified of people, but our expert kennel team are on hand to show them how kind humans can be.
"These dogs have a long road ahead of them which will come at a cost to our branch.
"We are not funded by the RSPCA so we need your support more than ever. Please help us by donating".
Emily Bowen, from RSPCA Cornwall branch, described some of the challenges the team are facing at this time: "For the last 18 months we have seen a huge influx of animals from multi animal households, which is having an impact on our ability to help more animals.
"This includes those animals on the waiting list, which includes people who can not afford for their pets and want to give them up".
Emily added that the cost of living has already had an impact and appealed to animal lovers to help support animal charities working tirelessly to support animals in need.
She said: "We would like to also appeal for foster homes with people that have no other pets or children, especially to help care for the influx of pregnant or whelping dogs we are now regularly getting, as well as hand rearing kittens and animals with behavioural or medical needs".
You can find out how to support the RSPCA Cornwall branch by visiting its appeal website.