PARMA, Ohio (WJW) — Hundreds of animals were discovered on Friday, living in deplorable conditions inside a home on West 54th Street in Parma.
Parma Animal Control Officer Julie Kocik went to the house following up on a phone call complaint about the house. She first went to the home Thursday but the homeowner refused to let her inside.
Officer Kocik returned Friday morning with a search warrant, along with the Building Dept., Service Dept., and back up crews from Strongsville, Berea and Independence.
“I’ve been with Parma for seven years, and this, so far, has been the worst,” said Officer Kocik.
Inside the small house they found 33 dogs, six cats, 200 birds, about 50 quails, and several bunnies.
“They are all living in filth,” said Officer Kocik.
The dogs and puppies were in the worst condition. They were removed immediately and taken to the Parma Animal Shelter on State Road, where they are being treated for fleas and other curable skin conditions.
The homeowner has until Monday to find homes for the birds and quails, when officers return for a follow-up inspection.
“(The homeowner) can only go to her house to clean it and for the birds. She said she’d get rid of them tomorrow,” said Officer Kocik.
The dogs are mostly small breed puppies: Chihuahuas and Dachshunds. There is one adult New Foundland that is said to be the owner’s favorite.
The owner can attempt to bring home some of the animals, but Officer Kocik hopes that the judge does not allow her to own more than a handful of pets.
“I’m hoping they don’t go back to her, and when we do go to court, I’m going to request that she can only have five animals,” Kocik said.
The woman was cited for numerous violations.
The shelter is run by volunteers and functions entirely on donations. Employees say they could use extra help caring for all of the puppies.
Donations of bleach, towels, food, toys and treats are welcome. Monetary donations are also greatly accepted either in person or through their website.
*Click here for more information on the Parma Animal Shelter.
