A rural Clyde Township property turned into a massive animal rescue and recovery scene yesterday, after St. Clair County animal control officers removed more than 200 animals, both living and dead, following a welfare complaint. The animals included ducks, chickens and goats. County officials said about 99 of them were found dead, with the rest recovered alive. The person involved voluntarily surrendered the animals, and authorities say the investigation is still underway.
What Officials Found
According to ClickOnDetroit, St. Clair County Animal Control worked with the sheriff’s office to remove more than 100 live animals and roughly 99 dead from the Clyde Township site. The mix of animals ranged from ducks and chickens to goats. Interim director and animal control officer Rachel Walch told the outlet that raising livestock requires constant access to feed, clean water, proper shelter and ongoing oversight, a standard that clearly came into question at this property.
How The Animals Will Be Cared For
The surviving animals were taken to the county shelter in Port Huron, where they are set to receive medical exams, treatment and day-to-day care while the investigation continues. Per St. Clair County Animal Control, the department works with rescue partners to facilitate transfers and adoptions once animals clear veterinary checks. Officials have not yet said whether criminal charges will be filed.
A Growing Pattern In Michigan
The St. Clair County seizure lands in the middle of a rough week for animal welfare cases across Michigan. As reported by ClickOnDetroit, Genesee County prosecutors recently filed felony charges after officers found dozens of animals dead or kept in hazardous, squalid conditions at a Flint Township home. Local animal-welfare advocates and county officials say these kinds of cases strain already limited shelter space and resources, and they argue that anyone considering a hobby farm needs to do serious homework before bringing home livestock or backyard flocks.
How To Report Concerns
Residents with information about the Clyde Township case are urged to contact St. Clair County Animal Control at (810) 984-3155 or [email protected], according to the county. Officials also stress that anyone thinking about starting a backyard or hobby farm should research the specific needs of each species and make sure they have the time, space and money required before animals ever arrive on the property.
