PITTSBORO, N.C. (WNCN) — Deputies with the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office said that they, along with an animal rescue group, seized 150 dogs from a residence Tuesday following ongoing concerns of alleged animal abuse.
The incident happened on January 25 after citizens reported concerns about the well-being of animals at 1360 Oakley Church Road home in the Bear Creek community, according to deputies.
During this incident, 38 dogs were seized and 6 were found dead. Alicia Dawn Culbrson, 36, was arrested and charged with animal cruelty.
The sheriff’s office, along with the BISSELL Pet Foundation in partnership with Animal Rescue Corps, returned to the residence and seized 150 dogs including schnauzers, mini-schnauzers and other various breeds, according to a press release from the Animal Rescue Corps.
“Every rescued dog from a puppy mill represents a triumph against cruelty,” said Tim Woodward, Executive Director of Animal Rescue Corps. “We work to shed light on the dark reality of puppy mills and emphasize the transformative power of adoption in providing these animals with the love and care they deserve.”
The Animal Rescue Corps said that responders also dozens of dogs living in inadequate housing and surrounded by “several inches” of feces and urine and several dogs “who were already deceased.”
They also said that several of the dogs, including newborn puppies, had “endured severe neglect and prolonged exposure to high levels of ammonia, resulting in dehydration, malnutrition, parasites, untreated injuries and illnesses, severe matting, skin conditions, and other life-threatening medical conditions consistent with chronic neglect.”
Deputies and the Animal Rescue Corps transported the dogs to an undisclosed rescue facility where they will remain in medical, physical and social care, according to Animal Rescue Corps.
