Nearly 200 Dogs Rescued From Disturbing Hoarding Situation In New Jersey
KINGWOOD, N.J. (CBSNewYork) – Authorities made a disturbing find in New Jersey – nearly 200 dogs that were abandoned and living in squalor.
Hunterdon County prosecutors say 188 dogs were recovered at a home in Kingwood Township in western New Jersey on Tuesday.
Local animal rescue workers removed dozens of dogs, who were ranging from puppies to several years-old.
The SPCA said most of them were terriers and many of the dogs are pregnant and haven't had any medical care.
"There are a host of medical issues dealing with every dog, everything from overgrown nails, to being severely matted and dirty," Ross Licitra, the executive director of the Monmouth County SPCA said.
The property owner is reportedly a longtime show-dog breeder.
"It's someone who got in over their head. You're talking about the woman who won 'breed' at Westminster Kennel Club that's not easy to do," dog owner James Wallace said.
Wallace told CBS2's Ali Bauman he bought his Parson Russell Terrier from the same woman 13 years ago. Back then, he claims there were no more than 15 dogs on her property.
The dogs are getting a full check-up. It'll be at least two weeks before they are put up for adoption because they still need significant medical care. The prosecutor's office said it's still investigating and any charges for animal cruelty are pending.
