13 Animals rescued from local property

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Authorities have rescued and removed over a dozen animals living in poor conditions from a western Massachusetts property.

This includes horses, mules, a donkey and birds.

WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT BELOW

In a press release sent to our newsroom Thursday, MSPCA-Angell detailed the unsanitary conditions their law enforcement officers allegedly found the animals in.

“When our team arrived, some of the animals were standing in over a foot of manure,” explained Vice President of Animal Protection, Mike Keiley, “Several are very underweight and have overgrown hooves, making it difficult for them to walk.”

A total of thirteen animals were rescued from the property on Wednesday following a search warrant, including seven horses, two mules, a donkey, two geese, and a cockatoo.

Authorities did not disclose where the property is located in western Mass.

“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,” noted Keiley.

At this time there is no word if any charges will be filed against the owner of the property.

The animals are now at MSPCA-Angell at Nevins Farm in Methuen, MA. We’re told they will all be cared for at this farm while the case makes its way through the court system.

“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," said Keiley.

Animals available for adoption can be viewed on the MSPCA-Angell’s website -- CLICK HERE

Those who are interested in adopting a farm animal are encouraged to submit an inquiry form at mspca.org/farmadopt