In a disturbing incident in Brooklyn, a 73-year-old woman was found dead in her home, which contained a large hoard of more than 80 dogs. The discovery occurred last Thursday at a property located at 2780 E. 66th St., Mill Basin. The woman was one of two sisters living in the residence, where responders encountered the dogs in severely neglected conditions, including one dog reportedly giving birth at the time of their arrival, according to a report from the New York Post.
Neighbors have repeatedly expressed concerns about the property, referring to it as a "house of horrors" with a stench so strong "that you can't even breathe," according to neighbor Leeora Bernstein, who spoke to ABC7NY. Authorities responded to the residence multiple times, at times climbing up to windows to look inside when there was no answer at the door. Adam Greenberg noted that officers observed deceased animals and squalid conditions that raised concern, but they were unable to enter without probable cause.
The house appeared to be without electricity, leaving it without air conditioning during a recent heat wave, which reportedly worsened the situation, according to the New York Post. The sisters living there reportedly had to use flashlights after dark, a detail noted by neighbor Alex Zinger. The cause of the woman’s death has not yet been determined.
Following the intervention, the Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) stepped in to rescue and remove the dogs from the premises. The ACC has highlighted an "incredible" surge of community support in finding the dogs appropriate care and eventually, new homes, as per a social media update from the organization. Photos depict the deplorable conditions of the home, with the neglected state of the dogs prompting an even more urgent call for assistance. "From fellow shelters and rescue groups to fosters, transporters, groomers, and donors," the ACC stated in their post, "you’ve stepped up for these dogs in ways we’ll never forget," as the New York Post reported.
The neighborhood has expressed both horror and relief following the involvement of authorities. There are hopes that the remaining sister and the rescued dogs will receive the necessary care and support. Nicole Scognamiglio, a neighbor, stated to ABC7NY, "It's hard to take care of one dog," she said, "How do you have 80? As much as you love them." The situation brings attention to concerns about urban animal welfare and its potential effects on individuals when not managed effectively.
