ASPCA, Monroe County Sherriff’s Office Rescue Neglected Animals in Wisconsin Hoarding Case

Kendall, Wis.—The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®), at the request of the Monroe County Humane Investigator and the Monroe County Sherriff’s Office, is assisting with evidence collection and managing the removal and sheltering of 15 dogs and a parakeet living in an overcrowded mobile home in rural Kendall, Wis. The animals were discovered living among feces, trash and rotting food in a poorly ventilated environment.

As a result of an investigation initiated by Monroe County Humane Investigator Bekah Weitz, a search warrant was executed Thursday morning for the removal of the animals.

“Animal hoarding is a complex issue that can encompass mental health, animal welfare and public safety concerns,” said Kyle Held, Midwest regional director of ASPCA Field Investigations and Response. “Many of the dogs were living in filth, and our immediate goal is to transport them to a safe place where they will receive care and treatment by our medical team.”

“We’re pleased to be able to work collaboratively with our Humane Investigator and the ASPCA to remove these animals from this overwhelming situation and help as many of them as possible,” added Detective Lieutenant Ron Rader with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

The dogs—ranging from Chihuahuas to Pomeranians—were living in an overcrowded mobile home and exhibited signs of neglect. They also appeared to be suffering from dental disease and dehydration, among other medical issues. As is common in hoarding situations, most of the dogs were not spayed or neutered. ASPCA responders also discovered deceased animal remains on the property.

“The compromised conditions these animals were living in prompted us to take action,” said Monroe County Humane Investigator Bekah Weitz. “It was clear that intervention was needed to help both the owner and the animals. We couldn’t have done it without such great support from all the agencies involved.”

The dogs are being transported to a temporary shelter at an undisclosed location, where they will receive the care and medical attention they need. Agencies including Texas Humane Heroes in Leander, Texas, have deployed responders to assist the ASPCA with the removal and sheltering of the dogs. Additionally, PetSmart Charities^® provided supplies, including pet crates and food to support the rescue operation.

The ASPCA will continue to care for the animals at the temporary shelter until suitable placement options are available.