One of the 24 cats rescued during the recent animal hoarding case in Whitley County.

By Brianna White
InkFreeNews

COLUMBIA CITY – On Sept. 9, 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 reported that 24 cats, seven dogs, and two guinea pigs 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.

Despite circulating rumors, Carroll has said that all of the animals are alive, and they should all make a full recovery. They are adjusting well, and the first batch of these rescued animals should be available for adoption in a week or two. The remaining animals will need more time to be rehabilitated, but all will eventually be adoptable.

Because the animal shelter was already operating at maximum capacity prior to this seizure, they 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+ 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.

Intake is closed until further notice for the well-being of the animals currently under their care. They will begin taking in animals again once they are able to. In the interim, the community is welcome to reach out to the shelter to discuss options if closed intake affects them. The shelter can provide resources to those who need them.

One of the 24 cats rescued during the recent animal hoarding case in Whitley County.

Carroll was quoted in the shelter’s press release, saying, “We need the community’s help more than ever — through adoptions, donations, and supplies — to ensure these animals get the care they deserve.”

Only three of the rescued cats were spayed or neutered. All of the remaining cats will need spay or neuter surgeries, which range from $80 to $100 each. Additionally, all of the rescued animals will need to be vaccinated, and many need additional medical treatments.

The Humane Society of Whitley County’s most immediate needs right now are:

• Cat litter
• Monetary donations to help cover vaccines, spay/neuter surgeries, and required medical care for the animals

Donations can be made online through their website, their Chewy wishlist, or their Amazon wishlist. Physical donations can be dropped off at the shelter during business hours. Donations may also be mailed to: HSWC, 951 S. Line St., Columbia City, Indiana 46725.

Carroll expressed thanks for everyone who has come together to support them so far. She said, “We are very grateful to the community. They have really stepped up for us, and we are very appreciative for that.”

One of the seven dogs rescued during the recent animal hoarding case in Whitley County.