February 1st, 2019
Cecil County Animal Services Seizes 63 Animals From Deplorable Conditions
February 1, 2019 by Cecil County Government
Retraction, 3rd paragraph: The former Queen Street Pet Store is not affiliated. The rescue is operating out of the location on Queen Street in Rising Sun.
CHESAPEAKE CITY, MD. — The Cecil County Animal Services (CCAS) Animal Welfare Division worked closely with the Cecil County Sheriff’s Office to seize a total of 34 cats, 26 dogs, two turtles and one raccoon found living in neglectful conditions from Eden Rehab and Rescue this week. This was following an initial investigation, that began January 5, 2019, after a report was received alleging animals, in the care of the rescue, were not being fed or cared for properly.
On January 23rd, the animals were found to be in deplorable conditions at an Elkton location including limited access to fresh water, unkept litter boxes, strong ammonia fumes, and kennels saturated in feces and urine. Many of the animals were found to be emaciated, possessed hair loss, and had open sores on their bodies. This resulted in the seizure of 22 dogs and 26 cats.
The same conditions were found following a second investigation at the Queen Street Pet Store in Rising Sun on January 30th, where Eden Rehab and Rescue also housed animals. This resulted in the seizure of 8 additional cats, 4 dogs, 2 turtles, and a raccoon. While this investigation is ongoing, charges of animal neglect are pending against the founder of the organization.
All animals were rescued and taken to CCAS where they are actively receiving appropriate care including medical, behavioral, and enrichment therapy.
“It is our duty to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. These animals were in grave need of care. We are anxious to rehabilitate these innocent victims and are committed to protecting them from any future suffering at the hands of a rescue organization that failed them,” expressed Abigail Lightning-Bingham, CCAS Director and Chief.
“I commend our staff at Animal Services for their commitment to serving and protecting these innocent creatures,” said County Executive Alan McCarthy. “I shudder to think of what could have happened to these animals had our team not jumped in when they did. Animal neglect and abuse is not something that will be tolerated in Cecil County.”
Coincidentally, testimony was presented yesterday in Annapolis on Senate Bill 152 (cross-filed with House Bill 135) – Criminal Law – Cruelty to Animals – Seizure and Removal. The bill creates a reasonable process to ensure that an owner or custodian of an animal that has been seized or removed due to cruelty is liable for the cost of care provided to the animal by a local control agency or shelter while in their possession. Costs incurred by county shelters for the seizure, care, and sheltering of neglected or abused animals can become exorbitant and ongoing depending on the case. SB 152/HB 135 would require owners, if convicted of animal cruelty, to be responsible for those costs.
For now, CCAS is imploring the community to help these animals with their significant cost of medical care by making a donation. Donations will go toward what is expected to be a long period of care and rehabilitation for the 63 animals currently in their custody.
If you would like to assist in the care and rehabilitation of these animals, please consider making a donation to the shelter’s foundation at https://www.firstgiving.com/Npo/413206/Donation/?designId=121757
Checks can be made out to the Cecil County Community Services Foundation and mailed to 3280 Augustine Herman Hwy, Chesapeake City, Maryland 21915.
Additionally, the following items may be dropped off at the shelter:
Pedigree Dry Dog Food
Pedigree Canned Dog Food
Purina Cat Chow
Canned cat food (any variety)
Purina Busy Bones
Fleece Blankets
Canned Pumpkin
Kongs and Nylabones
