Authorities discovered a shocking number of dead dogs — 146 in total — in a Mantua, Ohio, home on Friday, June 16. Officials from the Humane Investigations Department of the Portage Animal Protective League made the discovery.
Shocking number of dead dogs found in home of animal rescuer
According to FOX 8 News, the agency received a report that a homeowner had an animal cruelty charge pending in another area. A search warrant allowed officials inside the residence, where they discovered the dead dogs. The canines were confined in crates. Images of the scene are circulating on social media.
According to USA Today, the dogs’ bodies were “in varying stages of decay.” Forthcoming necropsies — animal autopsies — will reveal the cause of death of the dogs.
Owner of home where dogs died worked for rescue organization
In an ironic twist, the homeowner is reportedly a founding operator of the nonprofit animal rescue Canine Lifeline, Inc. The organization specializes in rescuing dogs from shelters who are at risk of euthanasia due to space constraints or those with treatable medical conditions. In a statement from the organization, volunteers claimed they did not know about the condition of the home or how many dogs lived there. Volunteers did not have access to the home.
In the statement, volunteers shared their impression of the homeowner, whom they believed to be a “very private person who appeared, to us, to be devoted to these rescue animals; it appeared to be her life’s passion, and we are sickened and blind-sighted to learn this was a façade.”
Apparently, the homeowner in question collapsed on June 2 and was hospitalized, which prompted the investigation.
“After first responders reported to her home in response to this medical emergency, an investigation was triggered that has uncovered overwhelming evidence of ongoing fatal animal neglect in both her current residence in Parma as well as her former home in Mantua,” the organization said in the statement.
The statement continued: “Please know that the volunteers of Canine Lifeline are grieving this tragedy and are cooperating with the appropriate authorities.”
Authorities are investigating and are not releasing any more information at this time.
Those who know about the situation should contact Humane agent Holly Ebner at humaneofficer@portageapl.org.
What to do if you suspect animal neglect or hoarding
If you suspect someone of hoarding animals, it is crucial to take immediate action to ensure the welfare of the animals involved. Contact your local animal welfare organization or animal control agency and provide them with detailed information about the situation. They have the expertise and resources to investigate and intervene if necessary. Also, they can ensure the animals receive the care they need and remove them from an unsafe environment. Reporting your concerns, even if you are unsure about the situation, is essential. By doing so, you are protecting the well-being of the animals and potentially preventing further harm.
