IRVINGTON — More than 20 dogs were found abandoned, uncared for and living in filth in an Essex County home.

The abandoned dogs were discovered by an animal-cruelty law enforcement agent who happened to be working in the Ellis Avenue neighborhood on an unrelated case.

The American Humane Societies' Newark office said they assisted the NJSPCA on Monday with the removal of the adult and puppy boxer mix dogs that appeared to be malnourished and living in tiny carriers and cages. No owner was home at the time and no charges have been filed.

Matt Stanton, spokesman for the New Jersey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said an agent was in the area on another case and heard barking coming from the home. She proactively began to look  around and discovered the dogs.

"Most of the puppies are completely emaciated and the adults look to be quite neglected," the AHS said. "It is not up to us to determine what the owners intent was for these poor dogs, but it is easy enough to surmise that they were not being treated as family pets."

The dogs were taken to the AHS' Newark facility where they were examined and treated for worms and fleas. Some will remain in Newark while others will be taken to AHS facilities in Tinton Falls and Lacey Township as the investigation into the case continues.

Popcorn Park Zoo executive director John Bergmann said his facility took in 12 and described them as "pretty skinny."

The AHS seeks donations to its "ResQ Fund" to help care for these dogs and the other animals that remain in their care from other hoarder cases.

 

 

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