In one of the largest animal seizures in recent local history, the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) rescued 93 animals from a residence in West Hempfield Township.
The operation, which lasted several hours, uncovered scores of animals living in what investigators described as “deplorable and unsanitary” conditions. The rescue was triggered by a tip from a concerned citizen regarding possible neglect at the property on High Ridge Road.
Humane Law Enforcement officers, supported by the Lancaster County Sheriff’s Department, executed a search warrant and discovered a massive variety of animals in distress:
76 Dogs and Puppies: Found throughout the home and garage.
15 Cats and Kittens: Many found in living quarters.
2 Flemish Giant Rabbits: Kept in outdoor hutches.
Officers reported a “foul odor” detectable from the street that intensified upon entering the home. Inside, they found animals living among piles of feces and pools of urine. Some dogs were confined to crates that had been zip-tied shut, while a German Shepherd and her puppies were found in a crate overflowing with waste.
According to the PSPCA, many of the animals showed clear signs of long-term neglect. Common issues identified during the initial sweep included:
Severe Matting: Many coats were caked with fecal matter.
Medical Neglect: Observations of hair loss, scabbing, and skin infections.
Contaminated Resources: Water sources for the animals were found filled with excrement.
“The scale of this rescue is staggering,” the PSPCA noted in a statement. “Our teams spent hours ferrying carriers out of the property to ensure every animal was safely removed from those conditions.”
All 93 animals were surrendered to the PSPCA and transported to the organization’s shelter hospital for forensic medical examinations. These exams will serve as the foundation for the ongoing criminal investigation.
While no arrests have been made yet, officials stated that charges of animal cruelty and neglect—specifically for failure to provide sanitary shelter, clean water, and veterinary care—are pending.
The PSPCA is currently seeking donations to help cover the “astronomical” costs of triage and long-term care for such a large group of rescued pets.
If you have information regarding animal cruelty in Pennsylvania, you are urged to contact the PSPCA’s 24-hour hotline at (866) 601-SPCA.
