A total of 93 animals, including 76 dogs and puppies of various breeds, 15 cats and kittens, and two Flemish rabbits, were found living in deplorable conditions at a residence on High Ridge Road in Columbia, according to officials.
The PSPCA's Animal Law Enforcement team says they were tipped off by a concerned citizen. When they arrived at the property while executing a search warrant, officials say they noticed a foul odor coming from the outside of the residence, which grew stronger as they approached the front door and garage of the home.
Officers were able to look through a window of the home, where they said several dogs appeared to be in distress, including a Newfoundland-type dog with heavily matted fur, a Shih Tzu-type dog with matting throughout the body, several shepherd-type dogs, and a Chihuahua with significant hair loss. Officers also said they saw piles of excrement and pools of liquid throughout the interior of the residence.
Multiple dogs, including a mother German Shepherd and her puppies, were also found living in feces-laden conditions inside crates in the garage.
Officials said many of the animals removed were covered in fecal matter and suffered from extreme matting, fur staining, hair loss on the face and body, and scabbing.
They also said that the water that was provided was visibly contaminated with excrement.
"The conditions these animals were forced to endure were truly heartbreaking," said Nicole Wilson, Director of Animal Law Enforcement and Shelter Operations at the Pennsylvania SPCA. "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. We are grateful to the Good Samaritan who spoke up."
The rescued animals will now undergo forensic medical examinations.
The investigation into animal cruelty and neglect is ongoing, and charges are pending the conclusion of the full investigation.
Anyone with information about this case, or other cases involving animal cruelty, is urged to call the Pennsylvania SPCA's Cruelty Hotline at (866) 601-SPCA. Tips can be left anonymously.