Press Release: 2024-10-21

MSPCA-Angell, Middleborough Authorities Seize More Than Two Dozen Animals Living in Poor Conditions

 

Posted on Oct, 18, 2024 by Sara-Rose Brenner Six Horses, 17 Dogs Among Animals Now in MSPCA-Angell’s Care

BOSTON, Oct. 18, 2024 – The MSPCA-Angell is settling in and caring for 17 dogs, two cats, one guinea pig, and six horses that were removed from a property in Middleborough on October 18 in a coordinated effort between MSPCA Law Enforcement and Middleborough Police, Animal Control, and Health Department officials.

The dogs were found living in unsanitary conditions in the basement with no access to food or water. The cats, turtle, and guinea pig were found in similar states, as were the horses who were being kept outside in unsanitary conditions.

“All the animals are underweight, and it was immediately clear that they’re going to need a lot of care,” explained new MSPCA Law Enforcement Director, Chris Schindler. “We volunteered to take all of the animals not only so we’re able to keep them together, but to also ensure that they have access to the incredible veterinary resources at our disposal at Angell [Animal Medical Center in Boston] if any need advanced medical care, something we’ll learn as we do complete medical and behavior evaluations.”

“But, taking them in is absolutely going to strain our resources, which are already stretched extraordinarily thin,” he added.

All of the dogs will be housed in boarding space at Angell, something that the MSPCA has never done before.

“We need to get creative to ensure these animals are able to get the care they need,” Schindler elaborated. “Our shelter capacity is tight, so we were forced to try something new to accommodate such a large and sudden intake.”

Schindler expects the cost of caring for the animals to be substantial. Those interested in donating to help offset that cost may do so at mspca.org/middle.

The MSPCA is also holding a fee-waived adoptathon this week for all dogs aged one and older across all four of its shelters to help free up space. More information on the event may be found at mspca.org/feewaived.

No additional information on the investigation is available at this time. The MSPCA will provide updates on the animals as they become available.