A Calgary couple who kept more than 90 animals in cramped and unsanitary conditions have been fined $6,900 each and are prohibited from owning more than one pet at a time.

Anthony and Christine Berry were charged in 2014 after humane society officials seized 69 rabbits, 21 hamsters, one cat and one dog inside the couple’s home. A peace officer was assaulted and threatened during the seizure.

Several of the animals had serious health concerns and 21 rabbits and five hamsters were euthanized due to their poor health. Many of the animals’ cages were caked in feces and showed obvious signs of neglect.

In March, the couple pleaded guilty to a charge of keeping the animals under distress.

“While this case is disturbing, it is encouraging to see it being taken seriously by the courts,” said Brad Nichols, manager of animal cruelty investigations for the Calgary Humane Society.

The sentencing on Thursday included a clause that restricted the couple from owning no more than one spayed or neutered cat or dog at a time. Nichols said that decision is an important one.

“Considering the level of neglect and the fact the Berrys were rabbit enthusiasts who were heavily involved in the show community makes it that much more important to keep them away from animals for a significant period,” he said.

Anthony Berry was remanded for several months and later pleaded guilty to assaulting a peace officer and uttering threats in connection to the seizure.

“This case encapsulates many of our greatest concerns from the various types of severe neglect and hoarding, to the danger our officers faced when the owner became violent,” Nichols said.

The humane society launched its investigation after a concerned member of the public reached out.

With a report from CTV Calgary