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Caring for rescued dogs puts pressure on local SPCA

The Red Deer and District SPCA is struggling to cover veterinary costs after taking in 40 rescued dogs from a rural Southern Alberta property.The animal care agency revealed on Thursday that it has been caring for the canines since late December.“We are working on all the dogs diligently right now so we can get them up for adoption as soon as possible,” said Amy Corpe, SPCA animal care manager/social worker.
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Amy Corpe

The Red Deer and District SPCA is struggling to cover veterinary costs after taking in 40 rescued dogs from a rural Southern Alberta property.

The animal care agency revealed on Thursday that it has been caring for the canines since late December.

“We are working on all the dogs diligently right now so we can get them up for adoption as soon as possible,” said Amy Corpe, SPCA animal care manager/social worker.

“Due to the condition they were in upon intake, our veterinary fees are just going through the roof right now. We have to pay for all them to be spayed and neutered, vaccinated, microchipped ... it costs a substantial amount of money.

“Any kind of monetary donations to go to their care would be a huge assistance to us right now.”

Supplies such as dog treats, wet food, pee pads, toys and bones would also be welcomed.

“With this high volume of dogs, it’s putting all this extra work on us,” said Corpe. “And we still have to help the public and help all the other unwanted animals within our own community. We can’t forget about that.”

A total of 201 dogs were seized from a Milk River-area property in two stages in late December and January. Animal care agencies in places such as Calgary, Edmonton, Hinton and Red Deer have been nursing the dogs back to health. Klassic Kennel and Alberta Animal Services in Red Deer are helping 36 dogs combined.

Corpe said the dogs arrived severely emaciated, covered with parasites, dirty and suffering from various medical ailments, including broken bones. Many dogs had open wounds on their bodies from fighting to survive.

One dog with a broken leg may require surgery to amputate the leg.

Corpe said the mix of adult Irish wolfhounds, sheepdogs, huskies, komondors and malamutes will need a lot of work before they are ready for new homes. About 12 puppies ranging between two weeks and five weeks old are receiving care.

She said the recovery time for the dogs will be extensive.

Two females — Cinder, an Irish wolfhound cross, and Caper, an akita husky cross — are ready to go to good homes. Corpe said residents are welcome to drop by the facility to see the dogs.

Charges of neglect are expected to be laid against a Milk River-area woman.

To make a donation or to sponsor a specific dog, call 403-342-7722 or visit www.reddeerspca.com, or go to the facility at 4505 77th St. during regular business hours.

crhyno@www.reddeeradvocate.com