According to the Friendship Animal Protective League, 37 animals were seized from an Avon home in late June due to their poor condition and environment.
On June 25, the FAPL and Avon Police Department launched an investigation after a concerned citizen returned a stray, ill dog to its owner. According to FAPL, the citizen complained that the home had a foul odor of urine and ammonia.
A FAPL Humane Agent responded to the property and discovered a lame goat, as well as other goats and sheep that lacked proper shelter, food, and water. Additionally, the agent discovered dogs tethered to heavy chains in a similar condition, according to FAPL.
After the owner refused to cooperate with the agent, a search warrant was executed, and animals were discovered to be confined to a dry lot on a small section of the property; ground temperature samplings in unshaded areas were measured at over 100 degrees, with one reading reaching 138.3 degrees, according to FAPL.
The shelters on the property were insufficient for the number of animals, inaccessible, or overheated due to poor ventilation. The FAPL reported that all of the sheep and dogs were panting heavily, and several sheep and goats appeared lethargic. Six young puppies were also discovered on the property, with signs of heat-related hyperthermia.
FAPL reported that 15 sheep, eight goats, 13 dogs, and a cat were seized from the home and are now receiving care. However, one goat died of a severe barber’s pole worm infestation.
“The conditions in which the animals were kept on this property were completely unacceptable,” said Gregory Willey, FAPL’s Executive Director. “Loving animals isn’t sufficient. They require appropriate care, attention, and living conditions. Our primary goal is to ensure that animals, including those seized from this property, receive the critical care they require and that justice is served on their behalf.”
On Monday, a probable cause hearing was held to determine where the animals would be housed while the case is being handled. According to FAPL, the owner has one week to post in order to retain ownership of the animals while the case is being heard. Criminal charges are pending.
The animals are currently in the care of the FAPL, and if the bond is not posted, they will be available for adoption, according to the FAPL.
Because of the number of animals seized, the FAPL has requested monetary and animal care supply donations. For more information on donating, please click here.
