Even though the Creston Pet Adoption and Welfare Society (PAWS) has no facility we rose to this challenge for the sake of the dogs, PAWS undertook this major rescue because it was well past the time for someone to put a stop to this tragic situation.Through the persistence of the Creston Pet Adoption and Welfare Society, on June 20, 2002, a local hoarder/collector was forced to surrender a total of 56 northern and mixed breed dogs to PAWS. These dogs have come from a neglected and abusive environment and were collected with the misguided intention of being used as sled dogs. Chained to trees all their lives, many have scars and open wounds on their heads and around their necks. All the dogs have exhibited fearful behaviour, some to the extent of severe traumatization.
As far as we know or have been able to determine, none of the dogs have ever been off their chains, or trained in sledding in any way.
As of July 12th, 56 dogs have been recovered from the mountain. Temporary kennels have been set up on private property. Two females have whelped this week (10 pups per litter). PAWS volunteers are feeding, watering and socializing the dogs on a twice-daily basis.
Within one week of their arrival in the PAWS temporary kennels, the transformation of the first 31 dogs was been amazing. All the dogs have sweet and gentle natures. Many are adoptable right now. PAWS has undertaken to vaccinate and spay or neuter each dog prior to adoption.
Authorities have known about this matter for a number of years - PAWS has tried unsuccessfully to rally the support of the BCSPCA, and various local and provincial government departments. There are no other shelter resources in our area and all the organizations that could have done something long before now kept turning a blind eye to the severity of the situation. We are grateful to Lands and Water BC for finally investigating and taking action. There is no Animal Control Bylaw or shelter facility in the Creston Valley where PAWS operates.
Lack of resources have forced us to appeal to the public, and through the media for urgently needed items: food, chain link fencing, dishes, collars and leashes, toys, and especially, money towards vaccinations and spay/neuter. Through our Internet contacts, many wonderful private rescue groups and individuals have rallied behind us in this effort.
PAWS first priority has been to ensure the safety and health of these dogs. Our second priority is to alert the local community and the media of our plight, so that we can find loving, caring homes for all these dear souls so that they never endure such trauma again. We are also investigating legal avenues that may be available to us to prevent this man from owning any more dogs, or at least restricting the number of dogs, and ensuring that they are spayed or neutered.
Thank you for your support.
Donations can be fowarded to PAWS at: Creston Pet Adoption And Welfare Society
PO Box 253
Creston BC, Canada
V0B 1G0
Telephone: (250) 428-PAWS (428-7297)
Emails: vmcdonal@kootenay.comTax Receipts available upon request.
Thank you.