Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
COLUMBIA CITY – On Tuesday, the Humane Society of Whitley County assisted the Whitley County Sheriff’s Department and the Whitley County Health Department in the execution of a search warrant that resulted in the removal of multiple animals from a single property.
Shelter Director Abbi Carroll said seven dogs, two guinea pigs and 24 cats were retrieved. It was an “all hands on deck” response from the Humane Society staff and volunteers to ensure the animals were safely transported and received the appropriate care, according to a news release from the Humane Society.
Carroll reported that all of the animals are alive and doing as well as can be expected under the circumstances.
The animal shelter was already operating at maximum capacity prior to the seizure and are now caring for more than 170 cats alone. While the animals from this case are not available for adoption at this time, the 150-plus other cats and dogs currently in their care are ready for forever homes. Each adoption frees up much-needed space and resources for the newest arrivals.
"We have a great community who has always supported us during critical times," said Carroll. "It is unfortunate that this confiscation occurred when we were already bursting at the seams with animals. We can't stress enough the importance of getting animals spayed and neutered. The animals we’ve taken in will each need hundreds of dollars in vaccines and spay/neuter alone, and we’re going through more than 300 pounds of litter every single week. We need the community’s help more than ever — through adoptions, donations and supplies — to ensure these animals get the care they deserve."
The investigation into this case is ongoing, and no further details can be released at this time, the release states.
The shelter's biggest needs right now are:
• Cat litter.
• Monetary donations to help cover vaccines, spay/neuter surgeries and general medical care for the animals.
For the well-being of both the staff and the animals in their care, animal intake is closed until further notice at the Humane Society of Whitley County.
Donations can be made online at https://hswc.org/ways-to-help/donate or dropped off at the shelter during business hours. Donations may also be mailed to: HSWC, 951 S. Line Street, Columbia City, IN 46725.
