Officials from Adams Co. rescue animals from ‘hoarding business’

ADAMS COUNTY, Ohio – More than a dozen animals were rescued from what Adams County officials call a “hoarding case.”

Adams County Dog Warden officials said the animals, including dogs and chickens, were found in a mobile home over the weekend after the mobile home owner passed away. Once the dog warden found the animals, they called the Humane Society for help.

Jessica Huxmann of the Humane Society of Adams County said the smell of ammonia and urine made it nearly impossible for first responders to breathe indoors.

Inside the house, trash was piled up nearly five feet high, some of the animals stood between 8 and 12 inches from what officials said was newspaper and feces, and three malnourished Chihuahuas were free to roam. Three sick puppies were found outside the house.

Many of the animals go to the vet on Monday to view their photos and assess their overall health. Despite their living conditions, many of the dogs are said to be friendly to people.

Huxmann said the Humane Society is helping pet owners avoid such situations.

“There are organizations that can help,” said Huxmann. “We provide free food for people who have difficulty feeding a pet. If they need to relocate a pet, there are organizations like ours that can help relocate a pet.”

If you are interested in raising some of these animals once they are approved for breeding, or if you would like to donate to help with their vet fees, contact the Humane Society of Adams County.