On Monday, March 10,the Animal Rescue League of Boston issued a release about the rescue
of nearly 200 animals from a hoarding situation in Lynnfield, Mass.
According to CBS Boston, the dire situation, involving dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles,
was discovered after police responded to a welfare check at a single-family home; the homeowner had died under non-suspicious circumstances.
A total of 199 animals were found to be living in squalid conditions -
cages and crates were stacked around the residence.
The poor living conditions resulted in a multitude of health issues for the animals,
including parasites, dental and eye problems, as well as upper respiratory issues.
Dr. Martha Smith-Blackmore, vice president of animal welfare at the ARL, offered
an explanation for the hoarding situation:
When people suffer from the complex psychological conditions that lead to animal hoarding,
they become overwhelmed with caring for all the animals they accumulate,”
“In hoarding situations, both the owner and the animals need help. If you see something
that suggests an animal hoarding situation, say something to your local authorities.
ARL worked with MSPCA-Angell in the rescue effort - the animals were all surrendered and moved to area shelters
for care.
Find ARL on Facebook here, and MSPCA-Angell here.
Blessed be all involved in this rescue.
