Humane officers rescue 17 cats, 25 rats from Pitcairn home
Humane officers rescued 17 cats and 25 domestic rats from a Pitcairn home Thursday.
Cody Hoellerman, Animal Friends chief community engagement officer, said a tip from a neighbor about animals in unsanitary conditions sparked the investigation that led to the rescue.
He declined to divulge the address of the home. Some of the animals were just days old.
Thursday’s effort was the second time humane officers were at the property this month.
“The house, it looked like the property was in tough shape, and there was horrendous odor emanating from the house,” Hoellerman said.
No arrests have been made. It is unclear what, if any, charges would be filed.
“The most important thing for us to do is make sure the animals are safe,” Hoellerman said. “We’re just glad that the owners of the home did cooperate and voluntarily surrendered the animals to us.”
The animals are being evaluated. Preliminary examinations indicated no emergency medical problems, Hoellerman said.
He encouraged people who suspect animal cruelty, abuse or neglect to contact Animal Friends’ Humane Investigations team at 412-847-7066 or call 911.
Michael DiVittorio is a TribLive reporter covering general news in Western Pennsylvania, with a penchant for festivals and food. He can be reached at mdivittorio@triblive.com.
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