The Ontario SPCA is looking for donations to help care for 12 surrendered Shih Tzus

The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society are asking the public to help cover the costs of caring for 12 Shih Tzus surrendered by an owner who decided they could no longer care for the dogs.

The dogs, many of whom are only eight months old, arrived in poor condition with severe mats and some requiring dental work, a press release said. There may be pregnant dogs in the group. The Ontario SPCA animal care team examines and cares for dogs to ensure they are receiving the care they need.

The dogs were transferred to Ontario SPCA animal centers in York Region, Durham Region, Barrie and Orangeville. Each dog still requires comprehensive health checks and additional care, such as spay/neuter procedures, before they are ready for adoption. The estimated cost of caring for these dogs is approximately $20,000, a significant amount that society needs assistance to cover.

“This person made the right choice in surrendering our dogs when they were no longer able to provide the care they needed,” says Sonya Reichel, vice president of shelter operations, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “However, this situation puts considerable strain on our resources as our centers are already approaching capacity. We are appealing to the public for support to help us cover the rising costs associated with caring for these dogs.”

As a registered charity that receives no annual government funding, the SPCA of Ontario depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need. To donate to provide care and shelter for these dogs, please visit ontariospca.ca/donate.

Once they have received a clean bill of health, the dogs will be ready for adoption. Anyone interested in adopting is encouraged to monitor the SPCA of Ontario website at ontariospca.ca/adopt.