Blount County highlights urgent animal abuse case

BLOUNTSVILLE, Ala. — A recent investigation into animal abuse and neglect is being spotlighted by Blount County officials as a stark reminder of the importance of spaying and neutering domesticated animals.

Blount County Sheriff’s Deputy Brock Echols, who also serves as the Animal Control Deputy, responded to a report of loose dogs last month in the Blountsville area and suspected animal abuse.

Upon arriving at the scene, Echols observed between 10 and 15 dogs running freely on the property and approximately 10 more confined in cages. Initial attempts to contact the residents were unsuccessful. Through investigation, Echols determined the property owners resided in a neighboring county. A neighboring agency attempted to reach the owners but was also unsuccessful; however, they reported hearing what sounded like 20 dogs inside the home.

Echols later spoke with the owners by phone and arranged to meet them at the residence.

Upon inspecting the property, Echols discovered more than 25 dogs, nearly all of them suffering from mange and severe malnutrition. Several animals had open wounds and various skin conditions. The dogs lacked access to clean water and adequate food, and in some areas, feces measured over 12 inches deep.

With the owners' assistance, Echols entered the residence and located eight additional dogs living in unacceptable conditions. Standing water filled the basement, where dogs were surrounded by floating trash and feces. Five puppies, previously unknown to the owners, were also discovered inside.

The Sheriff's Office posted pictures of some of their findings. Warning: some of the photos included are graphic in nature.

The Blount County Animal Adoption Center dispatched a representative to assist with the rescue effort. During the ongoing investigation, Echols uncovered 15 additional dogs and one deceased puppy outside the home.

As of March 12, a total of 43 dogs had been removed from the property. Several were euthanized due to irreversible health conditions. Criminal charges are pending, and the investigation remains ongoing.

“It is essential to spay and neuter your dogs and cats. Heartbreaking scenes like these must be avoided. It is inhumane to allow dogs to merely exist; they require care and nurturing to ensure their health and well-being,” the sheriff’s office stated. “We commend Deputy Echols for the dedication he and the Blount County Animal Adoption Center demonstrate in caring for the animals in our communities.”

Anyone with knowledge of similar situations or suspected animal abuse is urged to contact their local authorities and animal control department.