The SPCA has been awarded legal custody of 24 American Staffordshire Terriers, including several puppies, seized from a home in North Preston, N.S. on Oct. 3.
The provincial Department of Agriculture’s four-member appeal board heard from the SPCA and the dogs’ owners, Makell and Warren Cain, on Friday.
The appeal board rendered its decision late Tuesday, denying the owners’ plea to have the animals returned.
Makell and Warren Cain each face charges under the Animal Protection Act.
The charges include failing to provide animals with an adequate source of water and reasonable protection from injurious heat or cold.
Officials allege the two dozen animals were housed in an area filled with excrement and no protection from the heat or cold.
The SPCA says the dogs are doing well and will be available for adoption after they have been spayed and neutered.
Makell and Warren Cain are due to appear in Dartmouth provincial court on Nov. 17.
