In subsequent visits SPCA officers noticed numerous carcasses of dead cows on the property.
The B.C. SPCA has seized 129 neglected cattle from a farm in Cawston and plans to recommend charges of animal cruelty against the owner.
Eileen Drever said the SPCA received a complaint about the cattle’s conditions in December. Officers investigated and issued notices to the owner to improve the animals’ living conditions.
Start your day with a roundup of B.C.-focused news and opinion delivered straight to your inbox at 7 a.m., Monday to Friday.
Thanks for signing up!
A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder.
The next issue of Sunrise presented by Vancouver Sun will soon be in your inbox.
In subsequent visits, officers noted that improvements have not been made and noticed numerous carcasses of dead cows on the property.
On Jan. 18, armed with a warrant, the SPCA seized 95 cows and another 34 on Jan. 25.
“The conditions in which the cattle had to live were just absolutely disgusting,” said Drever. “They were up to their knees in mud and manure.”
The cows had no access to shelter or protection from the elements, and did not have adequate food or drinking water, said the SPCA.
Some of the cattle were suffering from various medical issues including untreated eye infections, lameness, mastitis, overgrown hooves and diarrhea. Some also appeared to be injured from broken fencing.
In one of the visits, officers found three cattle that were in critical distress and had to be put down.
Drever said the owner was given ample opportunity to fix the problem, but ignored the recommendations.
The animals are currently in the care of the B.C. SPCA. The investigation is ongoing.
chchan@postmedia.com
twitter.com/cherylchan