A local stray animal activist group received 13 of a total of 90 dogs that were rescued from an eastern Ohio animal hoarder Wednesday.
The Society for the Improvement of Conditions for Stray Animals, or SICSA, a Dayton-based non-profit, received the animals after a warrant was executed at a rural home in Harrison County, located west of Steubenville.
The dogs ranged from lab mixes, to collies, to hounds, and several other breeds. They are expected to be adoptable in the next month.
SICSA sent two responders to the residence, in conjuction with the Ohio Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and other rescue groups.
"They were covered in dirt and mud and some were eating snow," SICSA Community Engagement Manager Megan Moon said. "They're getting fresh food and warm shelter now."
Some of the dogs that were found in makeshift pens, formed from chicken wire and wood.
SICSA responders needed to crawl into the pens to get to some of the more frightened dogs.
One of the 13 tested positive for heartworm, but, like the rest, was otherwise healthy.
Most of the dogs are a year old and will be ready for adoption in the next three or four weeks.
The adoption process will begin after initial vet care and socialization efforts are finished.
Moon said no prosecution is forthcoming.
"It was heartbreaking for everyone involved," she said. "But it was a very successful rescue."
--Mickey Shuey
