Rescue Dog Stolen From SPCA After Nighttime Break In

Cooper was stolen from from the South Okanagan-Similkameen SPCA Wednesday night (Photo Credit: SPCA)

One of the 14 dogs that were handed over to the South Okanagan-Similkameen SPCA Branch as a result of a cruelty investigation has been stolen.

The dogs arrived at the shelter on Friday for care and were ready and up for adoption, but someone decided to steal one of them instead. According to Branch Manager Corrine Ross, on Wednesday night thieves jumped the fence and made off with Cooper.

Cooper was stolen from from the South Okanagan-Similkameen SPCA Wednesday night (Photo Credit: SPCA)

“They must have jumped one of the fences and then they cut the fence and stole Cooper,” said Ross. “He has just been neutered and needs medication following his surgery; we are very concerned for his safety.”

The one year old Carlin Pincher had surgery on Tuesday and was one of the rescue dogs surrendered in Vernon following a cruelty investigation involving the dogs and some horses. Cooper has a tattoo on his right ear, 624 ABLB, and according to Ross the local RCMP is involved in the investigation. Anyone who may have information about the stolen dog or the theft is asked to contact their local RCMP or the SPCA at 250-493-0136.

Mare and foul rescued from Vernon on Friday (Photo Credit: SPCA)

Meanwhile the horses involved in the animal cruelty investigation are recovering at a local rehabilitation centre. The horses came into the care of the SPCA underweight and will require longer care before they are available for adoption. Anyone interested in donating towards the care of the animals can do so through the BC SPCA website. Donors can ask that the money goes towards the Cruelty Investigations Department to assist in the care of animals taken into custody.

Mare rescued from Vernon on Friday (Photo Credit: SPCA)

Anyone who is able to donate hay or supplies can do so by emailing Kathy Woodward, Senior Animal Protection Officer at kwoodward@spca.bc.ca.