BEDFORD, Pa. – Pennsylvania State Police have revealed disturbing details about the living conditions of over 90 animals found in a home in Bedford County. The authorities responded to a report of animal cruelty at a residence on Old Route 220 in late December, where they found an alarming situation involving numerous dogs.
Upon arriving at the scene, police encountered a pervasive stench of dog feces and heard dogs barking inside the unattended home. It wasn’t until the following day that officers made contact with the homeowners, an 82-year-old man and a 62-year-old woman. During their conversation, the couple initially claimed to have 15-16 dogs in the house, but later admitted to around 60 dogs. Subsequently, 90 dogs, 8 cats, and a turtle were removed from the property, with the discovery of multiple dead animals in the home.
The animals were found malnourished, covered in waste, and confined in stacked cages from floor to ceiling. The heartbreaking scene prompted the involvement of several veterinary clinics and humane societies, including the Olde Bedford Vet Clinic, Brackenridge Veterinary, Central PA Humane Society, and Bedford Humane Society. Among those present was Joe Zolna, Board President of the Central PA Humane Society, who described the incident as the worst he had ever witnessed in his humane society work.
The rescue effort, however, is only the beginning of the animals’ road to recovery. The Bedford County Humane Society urgently appealed for blankets, towels, and financial support to care for the rescued animals. As the investigation continues, the society’s plea for assistance underlines the ongoing need for resources in addressing cases of animal cruelty and neglect.
In conclusion, the harrowing discovery of over 90 animals in distress highlights the critical role of humane societies and veterinary clinics in providing much-needed care and support for the victims of animal cruelty. The investigation into this case serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing challenges in addressing and preventing such incidents.