Authorities remove two dogs in animal abandonment case

PEMISCOT COUNTY, Mo. -- Authorities recently removed two dogs from a property near Steele, Mo., after the animals had appeared to be abandoned.

On Monday, March 30, the Caruthersville Humane Society (CHS), assisted by Captain Beverly Alexander of the Steele Police Department (SPD), executed a warrant concerning the possibility of abandoned animals.

According to authorities, complaints were received at the CHS and SPD concerning a trailer that had apparently been vacated. The complaints said that animals were heard inside the trailer.

Authorities conducted a well-being check of the property and discovered the two animals inside. After posting the property for a week, a warrant was obtained and the animals were removed.

"These animas were very hungry and thirsty and were living in moldy feces and urine, along with garbage," Alexander said.

"They were so grateful to be removed."

The animals were taken to the Caruthersville Animal Shelter for care, pending a disposition hearing scheduled in front of Judge Byron Luber on April 27, 2009.

"This is one of four cases of animal abandonment we have seen in the last month," said CHS Manager Erma Page. "People need to understand that it is a crime to do this and they should care more for their animals than this. It is sad to see these animals treated like this."

"The investigation into these animals in continuing," Alexander said. "Anyone with information can contact the humane Society at (877) 920-0101."

Alexander also said the property owners have yet to be identified.