Dozens of more cats rescued after kids found living in squalid conditions

Updated 3 hours ago
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- The Pennsylvania SPCA has rescued at least 88 cats and one dog from what officials described as deplorable conditions inside a home on the 7100 block of Whitaker Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia.

(The video in the player above is from previous coverage.)

On July 8, federal authorities executed a search warrant at the home, where investigators found two children living in what sources described as squalid conditions.

The children's parents, Thomas Bach, 43, and Megan Bach, 44, have been charged with endangering the welfare of children, recklessly endangering another person and other offenses.

Officials initially reported finding 38 cats and one dog inside the home. However, the PSPCA confirmed Friday that dozens more cats have since been recovered, bringing the total to at least 88 felines.

READ MORE | Parents facing charges after 2 children found living in squalid Northeast Philadelphia home


Authorities said the children, ages 5 and 8 months, were found with bug bites and bruises and were taken to a hospital for evaluation.

"There were a number of unsanitary conditions," said Heela Homman, the PSPCA's director of lifesaving. "As you can imagine, with that number of animals, there was a large amount of feces and generally very dirty and unsanitary conditions."



Homman said the cats were thin and some showed signs of respiratory issues. The animals varied in age, and the dog was described as an adult shepherd-cattle dog mix.

"We haven't had much trouble with these guys," Homman said. "For the most part, they've allowed handling. They've all been thoroughly evaluated by our medical team. They're doing their best, as are we."



Homman said most of the animals are expected to be available for adoption.

"Some of them are still pretty shy, but others are friendly and social," she said. "The ones that are shy will likely come out of their shell once they're in a different environment."

Sources said the children are now in the care of the Philadelphia Department of Human Services.

Authorities continue to investigate the case.
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