The Pennsylvania SPCA removed nearly 100 animals, including 76 dogs, from a West Hempfield Township home on Wednesday after getting a tip that the animals were living in conditions that violated the organization’s cruelty code.
Pennsylvania SPCA’s Animal Law Enforcement team, along with the West Hempfield Township police and Lancaster County sheriff deputies were at the home in the 700 block of High Ridge Road for about nine hours. Deputies were on hand to serve a search warrant.
Officers found dogs covered in feces and with extremely matted fur, hair loss and scabbing. Water was contaminated and some animals were in crates zip-tied shut, according to the organization.
Beside the dogs and puppies, 15 cats and kittens and two Flemish rabbits were removed and signed over to the Pennsylvania SPCA. The animals will be examined and charges may be filed based on the findings, the organization said in a news release.
“The conditions these animals were forced to endure were truly heartbreaking,” said Nicole Wilson, director of animal law enforcement and shelter operations. “Ninety-three animals living in filth, without clean water, adequate shelter, or basic care — this is why our team works around the clock to respond to these calls.”
This is a breaking news story and additional information will be added as it becomes available.
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