MSPCA-Angell rescues – The MSPCA-Angell Law Enforcement team removed seven horses, two mules, a donkey, two geese, and a cockatoo from unsanitary conditions on a Western Massachusetts property on Wednesday after multiple attempts to work with the owner failed.
A rescue team didn’t just see neglected animals on a Western Massachusetts farm on Wednesday—they found some standing in conditions that were described as severe.
The MSPCA-Angell said its Law Enforcement team removed 13 animals from the property after they were living in what one official described as “over a foot of manure.” The group said seven horses, two mules, a donkey, two geese, and a cockatoo were taken from the “unsanitary conditions.”
“When our team arrived, some of the animals were standing in over a foot of manure,” Mike Keiley, MSPCA-Angell Vice President of Animal Protection, said in a press release. Keiley said “several are very underweight and have overgrown hooves, making it difficult for them to walk.”
The MSPCA-Angell said the operation was carried out as part of a warrant and followed repeated attempts to improve conditions. “Prior to issuing the warrant, we’d made multiple attempts to work with the owner and improve conditions. When those efforts were unsuccessful. we needed to step in out of concern for the animals’ wellbeing. ” Keiley. President of Animal Protection. said in a press release.
After the removal, the animals were taken to the MSPCA-Angell at Nevins Farm. The organization said they will receive treatment and be put up for adoption.
The rescue also placed an urgent spotlight on what happens next for the animals—and for the shelter. The MSPCA said it is currently taking care of more than 35 farm animals and is urging people who are able to adopt to come forward. “We’re relieved these animals are now safe. but looking after additional farm animals—particularly those of this size—is a big undertaking on top of the farm animals already in our care. We’re calling on adopters to come out and help ease the pressure on our animal care staff and resources. ” Keiley said.
MSPCA-Angell animal rescue Western Massachusetts horses mules manure Nevins Farm animal adoption animal protection warrant