ASPCA caring for 28 dogs rescued from Pennsylvania dog fighting operation
On March 6, the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Bureau of Criminal Investigation announced an animal cruelty and dog fighting investigation that resulted in the seizure of 28 dogs from a residence in Luzerne County. The dogs, along with numerous items of animal fighting paraphernalia, were discovered when the Pennsylvania State Police Animal Cruelty Officer assisted with a search warrant at the residence in West Hazleton Borough.
Officials say that while on scene, they discovered multiple indicators of involvement consistent with animal fighting activities. Responders also discovered 19 crated dogs inside the residence and eight crated inside a backyard shed. An additional dog was running loose on the property and captured.
The dogs were removed from the property with the assistance of Griffin Pond Animal Shelter and the Luzerne County Animal Response Team. Griffin Pond temporarily cared for the dogs, which were later placed in the care of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
The dogs must undergo forensic veterinary evaluations, general veterinary care, and behavioral analysis. The subject of the search warrant was lodged in Luzerne County Jail on other criminal charges.
Yesterday, the ASPCA confirmed assisting with the suspected dogfighting case involving dozens of dogs, including puppies in Luzerne County.
While on the scene, officials discovered dogfighting paraphernalia, including weighted collars, heavy chains, medication, and treadmills. Some dogs were also observed with scarring and injuries consistent with dog fighting.
The ASPCA transported the animals to an ASPCA facility where they will receive medical and behavioral evaluations, care, and enrichment. State troopers say that their investigation into the dog fighting charges is still ongoing.
For more on the story, see the video below.
.
(Sources: Pennsylvania State Police / All images credited to ASPCA)
Posted by Richard Webster, Ace News Today
Follow Richard on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram
