KEYPORT — The Keyport Police Department and the Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MCSPCA) have seized 17 dogs from a home due to poor conditions.
On June 25, Keyport police responded to a noise complaint due to barking dogs in the area. When police arrived, they came to see that the windows were blacked out with flies and debris, there were several dogs running in the yard and there was a strong odor emanating from the home.
Upon entry the home was filled with urine-soaked garbage, fecal matter and debris from wall to wall.
According to Lieutenant Tom Nuccio, MCSPCA law enforcement officer, the conditions found in the home were “the worst I’ve seen in my 25 years of law enforcement.”
MCSPCA Medical Director Dr. Nicole Feddersen added, “This flea infestation is the worst I have ever seen. We couldn’t tell that the white dogs were actually white.”
They were covered with debris, fleas, feces and flea dirt. The house is now condemned by the State of New Jersey.
All dogs have had physical examinations and heartworm tests, been dewormed, vaccinated and microchipped. They are all anemic from both internal and external parasites, which will delay spay and neuter surgery. Dr. Feddersen noted that although the dogs were scared and antisocial upon arrival at the shelter, after a 24-hour period and a bath, they were turning around nicely.
“They are eating well and getting lots of TLC,” she said, “Overall, I find them to be sweet and, with time, will be terrific companions.”
Adoptions for these dogs may begin after surgery, within 7 to 14 days.
MCSPCA Executive Director Ross Licitra would like to remind the public that “While the Monmouth County SPCA’s primary concern is for the safety and welfare of these animals, our organization is also a strong resource for residents in Monmouth County. Our low-cost spay, neuter and vaccine program makes it easier for people who are struggling to keep their pets healthy and avoid hoarding situations like the ones we are currently seeing. Please reach out to us for information and resources if you are having a problem, before you become overwhelmed.”
The MCSPCA is in need of monetary donations to provide medical treatment, food, supplies and care to the dogs while they await placement. All donations can be made online via www.monmouthcountyspca.org, through the mail via MCSPCA, Keyport Case, 260 Wall St., Eatontown NJ 07724, or over the phone by calling 732-440-1557.