Cattaraugus County woman charged with 41 counts of animal neglect

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- A Cattaraugus County woman is facing 41 counts of neglect of an impounded animal after authorities found 41 dogs and 11 cats in deplorable conditions, the Cattaraugus County SPCA announced Thursday.

The animals were removed from the home in Farmersville and taken to the SPCA on July 24. The woman is also facing charges of torturing or injuring animals and failure to provide sustenance, the SPCA said. She pleaded not guilty and will appear in court in early September.

After the dogs were placed in the custody of the SPCA on Aug. 12, veterinarians had to euthanize one of the dogs because of a condition that reportedly went untreated long-term.

According to the SPCA, other dogs had missing jaws, severe skin and ear infections, dental disease, missing teeth, heart murmurs, mammary masses, matted hair, hair loss, lesions on their paw pads, ulcerations on their scrotums, flea infestations and more, most of which were from poor living conditions.

The animals also allegedly did not have access to water, a consistent food source and medical care. They were left in their own waste for long periods of time and no one lived in the home with them, the SPCA said.

The SPCA provided treatments to the dogs and cared for them until the owner gave up ownership. The animals still need vaccinations, deworming and other types of care.

To cover medical expenses, the SPCA is asking for both monetary contributions and donations of blankets, plush toys, senior canned food and more, along with volunteers to help around the shelter. Donations can be dropped off at the shelter at 2944 Route 16 in Olean or ordered here, and monetary donations can be made here.