The Wayne County Sheriff's Office asked for help from The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in removing and sheltering 26 cats and a dog living in an overcrowded mobile home.
Officials said the animals were found living among feces, urine and trash in a poorly ventilated environment.
Authorities reported a search warrant was executed on Friday morning to remove the animals, who were surrendered by the owner. The animals were taken from the home after a public complaint was filed regarding living condition concerns. The owner received at least one prior citation for a dog license violation and noted poor air quality--a result of the number of animals in the home.
“It was clear that an intervention was needed to help both the animals and the owner,” said Jessica Rushin, senior partnerships manager of ASPCA Field Investigations and Response. “Our immediate goal is to transport these animals to a safe place where they’ll receive much-needed medical attention, while the owner gets the help she needs.”
The cats were mostly adult short hairs, officials said. They suffered from dehydration and dental disease. Some appeared undersocialized and fearful of humans. One dead cat was found on the property.
The cats were taken to a temporary shelter in an undisclosed location, where they will receive care and medical attention, authorities said. The ASPCA will then place the cats with partner shelters to be made available for adoption. The dog will be treated and made available for adoption at Wayne County Kennel and Adoption Center.
