Negligent Clearwater breeder loses legal case

KAMLOOPS — A clearwater man who had several emaciated dogs seized by the BC SPCA earlier this year won’t have any of them returned to him, according to a decision by the BC Farm Industry Review Board (BCFIRB) released this month.

The BCFIRB denied Kurtis Elliot’s appeal after a teleconference hearing. Two dogs were surrendered by Elliot on January 9, with six dogs and seven puppies seized the next day. Elliot appealed on January 25, stating that he wanted four of the adult dogs back. The industry review board denied Elliot’s request, while also finding him liable for the costs claimed by the BC SPCA in taking care of the seized dogs, totalling $7,608

One of the seized adult dogs, Blue, had to be euthanized after being surrendered by Elliot, The dog pen was covered in ice and had a build-up of urine and feces. The dogs did not have suitable shelter, nor did they have any food or water. The bucket of water laid out for them was frozen.

The decision noted how the seized dogs were underweight and had protruding ribs and hips. Two of the females were in particularly bad shape and were described as being extremely thin and emaciated and with protruding skeletal features.

Many of the dogs have since been adopted from the BCSPCA, and have found new homes that the organization hopes will give them a second lease on life.

The decision by the BCFIRB serves as a reminder of the importance of treating animals with care and compassion, and the consequences of neglecting them.