Press Release: Search Warrant Issued in Potential Animal Collector Case in Ross Township
Wednesday, October 1, 2008

For immediate release

Date:           October 1, 2008

Contact:       Kathy Hecker                       
                   Humane Officer for Animal Friends              
                   412.758.6086                                           
                                                                                  

October 1, 2008—A search warrant has been issued for the residence of 102 Ridgeside Road in Ross Township. Animal Friends’ Humane Officer Kathy Hecker will be investigating a case involving at least six dogs, many cats, 30 chickens, 25 rabbits, a duck and four goats living in the crowded, filthy basement.

Officer Hecker described the basement as a “firetrap” where animals were living in their own feces.

Officer Hecker first visited the residence upon receiving a tip from a concerned neighbor. The owner claimed that she was taking the animals to auction. She was ordered to move the animals out of her home and into proper environments. When Animal Friends’ Humane Officers returned on September 30, the owner would not let them inside. Animal Friends’ officers are returning to the residence with a search warrant today.

The dogs, cats and rabbits will be coming to Animal Friends for medical assessment exams. The other animals will be placed under medical quarantine or moved to a farm for medical care.

The owner could face summary neglect charges.

To learn more about Animal Friends or to make a donation to support the costs of the animals’ care, visit http://www.thinkingoutsidethecage.org/.

Officer Kathy Hecker is available for interviews at 412.758.6086.

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About Animal Friends
Animal Friends, southwestern Pennsylvania’s premier companion animal resource center, is proud to serve pets and people through our humane programming. From creative kenneling for homeless animals to innovative spaces for our unique outreach programs, Animal Friends is changing the way an animal shelter can enhance our region. We’re proud to place over 2,200 dogs, cats, and rabbits into loving homes each year, as well as serve tens of thousands of people through our pet-focused therapeutic and educational programs. Animal Friends is a non-profit organization that relies on community support. To learn more about Animal Friends or meet adoptable animals, visit http://www.thinkingoutsidethecage.org/.

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