Months ago, hundreds of neglected farm animals were rescued from heartbreaking conditions in Brant. Now, two of the rescued goats just delivered healthy babies.
WESTMERE, N.Y. — Four months ago hundreds of farm animals — including goats, chickens, ducks, and sheep — were rescued from deplorable conditions in Brant.
Now, two of those goats are mothers. They were pregnant when they arrived at the SPCA Serving Erie County, and just this week, Josh, Hailee, and Elvis were born.
Investigators say the cruelty case was a massive undertaking, but times like this make it all worth while.
The SPCA says one more goat is still waiting to deliver her offspring.
Last month, two Town of Brant residents faced hundreds of animal cruelty charges after investigators say more than 200 animals were found living in neglect on their property, according to the Erie County District Attorney’s Office.
Bonnie and Donald George were arraigned on 207 counts of overdriving, torturing and injuring animals; failure to provide proper sustenance; and obstruction of governmental administration,” the DA’s Office said.
The SPCA seized 216 animals from the couple’s property, including goats, chickens, ducks, cats, sheep and dogs. Many of the animals were allegedly kept in unsanitary conditions without adequate food or water.
Investigators also said the couple refused to reveal the location of two horses, hindering the investigation.
The defendants are scheduled to return to court later this month. If convicted, they could face up to a year in jail.
Lindsay Wood, the chief investigation officer for the SPCA of Erie County, talked 2 On Your Side about the case last November.
“Our veterinary staff, who are farm staff, who’s on team on scene, believe a lot of these goats may be suffering from pneumonia and severe respiratory disease. A lot of them have severe farrier issues, where their hooves are twisted and overgrown. They’re unable to walk properly,” she said.