The BC SPCA has seized 16 dogs in distress from a property in Quesnel.

The dogs included German shepherds, a Yorkshire terrier, a retriever, bull terriers, standard poodles, Portuguese water dogs, a Pekingese, corgi-border collie crosses and miniature pinschers.

All animals were found being kept in crates too small for their size in a poorly ventilated area and had no or limited access to water with feces and urine soaked matting.

Karin and Catherine Adams were the individuals keeping the dogs and are previously known to the BC SPCA.

They were both convicted of animal cruelty in 2015 for the mistreatment of 53 animals including horses, birds and cats.

“It is extremely frustrating when we deal with repeat offenders, particularly those who breach the terms of their sentencing,” says Marcie Moriarty, chief prevention and enforcement officer for the BC SPCA.

“However, we are pleased that these dogs are now safe and are getting the attention and care they need.”

The investigation is ongoing and the BC SPCA will be recommending new charges of animal cruelty.

The Adams will also face charges for violating the conditions of their 2015 sentence.

All the dogs are currently in care of the SPCA shelters in the region.