MIDDLEBORO, Mass. — Seventeen dogs and six malnourished horses were rescued from a Middleboro home after investigators found them in a state of neglect Friday.
Middleboro Animal Control originally arrived at the Precinct Street home to execute an administrative warrant as part of an animal welfare investigation. Simultaneously, the MSPCA Law Enforcement Department executed a criminal warrant regarding horses on the property.
The dogs found inside the home’s basements were confined to cages, had no access to food or water and were covered in filth, according to town officials.
One dog needing emergency medical care was removed from the home and placed into the care of Animal Control. The other 16 canines will be removed with the help of other organizations like Wareham Animal Control.
Jillian, a neighbor, told Boston 25 the six horses were so hungry, they ate part of the stable,
She shared video of the horses and their makeshift stable. She said there are horseshoe imprints on this horse, evidence, Jillian says that boredom and hunger caused the horses to fight each other.
“They were eating through the boards that were keeping them separated, now they are all together,” Jillian described. “So they are beating up on each other, and they just can’t relax.”
One town official said it was the worst animal abuse case he had seen in years.
“The two years I’ve been here, this is the worst,” said Animal Control Officer Kevin Racicot.”They were in cages and dog kennels, with urine and feces inside the kennels. Without food, without water. Some were emaciated, pretty skinny. Some were in better condition, but the majority were in filth and pretty thin.”
“It’s so heart-wrenching. I have horses on my own. I know how they should not be taken care of. And it’s just not right,” Said Jillian.
Two cats, a turtle, and a guinea pig found inside the home will also be removed.
The home was condemned because the Middleboro Health Department determined that it was a health hazard. The Middleboro Fire Department also said the building was a fire hazard.
All of the dogs will be housed in boarding space at Angell, something the MSPCA says has never done before.
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“We need to get creative to ensure these animals are able to get the care they need,” MSPCA Law Enforcement Director, Chris Schindler said. “Our shelter capacity is tight, so we were forced to try something new to accommodate such a large and sudden intake.”
Criminal charges against the homeowner have not been filed at this time but the investigation remains active and ongoing.
Those interested in donating to help the affected animals may do so at mspca.org/middle
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