Over 100 Animals Rescued From Alleged Severe Neglect At Veterinarian’s Home In Ohio

Humane World for Animals is assisting Sandusky County humane agents in rescuing over 100 animals from a licensed veterinarian’s residence in Clyde, Ohio. Authorities allege the animals were victims of large-scale neglect.

The Sandusky County Sheriff’s Office, Humane Society of Sandusky County, and Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary also participated in the operation. Officials executed a search and seizure warrant at approximately 7:30 a.m.

Inside the home, responders encountered dogs, cats, goats, alpacas, donkeys, guinea pigs, rabbits, exotic birds, and a pig living in squalid conditions. The residence smelled strongly of ammonia, and various species were intermingled throughout the space.

“This is particularly egregious because a veterinarian has the knowledge and expertise to recognize when animals need help,” said Dr. Michelle Gonzalez, a forensic veterinary consultant for Humane World for Animals and Ohio representative for Humane Veterinary Medical Alliance. “We swear an oath to treat animals with dignity and respect and our communities trust us to put the utmost importance into the welfare and health of animals. This is a shocking anomaly.” 

In the hallway, about 20 dogs roamed freely between cages of parrots. One parrot had a visible wound on its wing. The basement revealed more disturbing sights. An examination table was stained with dried blood, and a surgical tray contained used needles, sutures, and unlabeled medications. Nearby, a tabby cat with a painful eye injury was found in a cage.

Dozens of cats, many suffering from upper respiratory infections, were crammed into adjoining rooms. Several rabbits were found in a barren basement room, forced to live on concrete flooring covered in feces and urine. Many of the animals were suffering from severe dental disease.

Concerned for the animals’ welfare, Sandusky County authorities requested assistance from Humane World for Animals. The organization is providing animal handling, scene documentation, transportation, and care for the rescued animals.

The animals are being transported to undisclosed locations for in-depth veterinary evaluations and much-needed treatment. Volunteers from Humane World for Animals, RedRover, Green Dogs Unleashed, and Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary are working to ensure they receive proper care.

“It’s gratifying to see everyone working together to help these animals, but our goal is to prevent animal suffering from escalating like this in the first place,” said Mark Finneran, Ohio state director of Humane World for Animals. “This serves as a reminder to the public that animals in our community are depending on us to speak up when there is an animal welfare concern.”

Authorities have not yet announced potential charges against the veterinarian who owned the property.