Dogs, horses, turkeys and many others discovered in inhospitable conditions during heat wave

At least 121 animals, from puppies to horses, were rescued from a South Shore residence on July 2, 2026. The SPCA said many will require lengthy rehabilitation. (SPCA)

The Montreal SPCA’s investigation unit seized 121 animals living in inhospitable conditions at a rural residence on the South Shore at the beginning of July.

The organization says that early on July 2, special constables and other staff found the animals struggling through the stifling heat wave and took them into care.

The following animals were rescued:

• 30 dogs and puppies
• 9 horses
• 28 chickens and five roosters
• 25 ducks
• 14 turkeys
• 4 rabbits
• 4 quails
• 1 cat
• 1 goat

“While a heat wave was ongoing, many had no access to water, putting them at serious risk of dehydration and suffering,” the SPCA said in a post on social media. “Some were also living with lesions that could cause significant pain.”

The SPCA said it was unable to give further details about other evidence found on the scene or the exact location of the property, due to its ongoing investigation.

Shelter teams from the SPCA have taken the animals into their care and are providing treatment for those with injuries.

“For many, this is only the beginning of a long journey to recovery—one that will require weeks, and in some cases months, of rehabilitation,” the SPCA said, adding that the number of animals seized will place enormous strain on the organization.

The organization added that the number of animals may change as the investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information about animal cruelty or pets being kept in inhospitable conditions is asked to contact the SPCA.