In a sweeping operation in Howard Township, Cass County Animal Control officials seized more than 220 animals from a single property on Wednesday morning. The collection of creatures. included a menagerie of dogs, ducks, chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs, doves, gerbils, frogs, fish, a crawfish, and even a snapping turtle, as reported by WZZM13.
Authorities conducted a search warrant on the property located in the 2500 block of Lilac Avenue around 9:30 a.m. The raid came to uncover a house crowded with animals living in cramped, and potentially unsafe conditions. According to a statement given to WWMT, Sheriff Clinton Roach described the scene inside the home as "228 different animals that we seized and took back to the Animal Control Center where they're being taken care of and making sure they're healthy."
All of the animals have since been taken to a secure location where they are receiving any necessary medical treatment. While the suspect's name has not been disclosed, charges are being prepared against the individual in connection with the case. The Cass County Sheriff's Office is urging anyone with information on this case or any other instances of animal neglect or cruelty to come forward and contact local animal control.
Neighbors have expressed their shock at the extent of the animal hoarding discovery. William Everman, a local resident, told FOX 17, "Oh, that's too many. You can't take care of that many dogs, animals. There's no way. That doesn't make me happy." He emphasized the importance of proper care for animals, insisting those who aim to care for multiple pets should ensure they have the means to do so.
