Here is how the SPCA works when it comes to complaints about puppymills.
They attend and investigate, they remove any sick or injured animals. Then the owner is given a specific amount of time to bring the kennel up to standard, ONLY if she fails to meet those standards can the SPCA seek a warrant to seize the animals. They cannot just go in and scoop up all the animals if they are all being fed, watered and provided with shelter.
If she is over limit they will give her a certain length of time to bring the numbers down. If at the end of the time frame she is still over limit they can then seek a warrant to seize some animals.
The SPCA does not have the authority to just walk on to a person's property and seize animals unless those animals are sick, injured or abused. They must follow legal procedures otherwise their cases wouldn't stand up in court. It is for this reason that it is so very difficult to shut down these puppymills as so many provide the mere basics of food, water, shelter. Most are of course well over the limit they are allowed to keep but all the SPCA or local animal control can do is fine them, give them time to bring the numbers down. Usually what happens is the breeders bring the numbers down, keeping their best studs and breeding bitches and start the process all over again.
It's a vicious circle which has been ongoing for many many years. The legislation needs to be changed but I don't think any state or province is having much luck in that regard.
Talk to the SPCA, find out what the status of the case is. |