The ASPCA transported the animals to a temporary shelter in an undisclosed location where they will receive medical care and behavior enrichment.
Upon arriving at the facility, ASPCA responders discovered the animals—including dogs and cats of all breeds and ages—living in filthy, deplorable conditions.
Many of the animals were emaciated and appeared to be suffering from medical issues such as parvo virus, distemper and untreated wounds. Some of the animals were being housed in small wire crates and others in crowded enclosures where animals fought for resources and space.
The seizure is the result of a complaint by a shelter volunteer who recorded incidents of animal abuse and mistreatment at the facility. The Lawrence County Commission subsequently terminated its contract with Lawrence County Animal Shelter following the complaint.
ASPCA experts are collecting and analyzing forensic evidence and providing legal support to help strengthen the criminal case and ensure the best outcomes for the animals.
“This is a truly tragic situation,” said Tim Rickey, vice president for ASPCA Field Investigations and Response. “It was immediately clear upon entering the facility that these animals have been severely neglected.”
“Our goal is to provide them with much-needed medical attention and socialization. Eventually, we hope to place them with responsible shelters that have the means to care for them and find them homes.”
The ASPCA’s Medical Animal Surgical Hospital—a custom-built, mobile animal hospital—will allow veterinarians to provide critical care to animals on site. The vehicle includes a surgical suite, exam tables and diagnostic technology allowing for immediate medical results.
Agencies assisting the ASPCA with the removal and sheltering operation include: Angels of Assisi (Roanoke, Va.); Humane Society of Memphis & Shelby County (Memphis, Tenn.); McKamey Animal Care Center (Chattanooga, Tenn.); and MSPCA-Angell (Cape Cod, Mass.).
Image via ASPCA
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