3 animal hoarding cases overload Madison Co. shelters

MADISON COUNTY, Ind. (WISH) – Madison County animal shelters are scrambling for supplies and funds after detectives responded to three separate animal hoarding cases this week. Detectives found nearly 100 animals.

Elwood police said two flea-infested cats have died since animal care workers found them. Police said they don’t know exactly how the cats died.

In total, detectives found more than 50 cats, 18 dogs, three snakes, ducks, chicken, a parrot and other animals.

The animals are now staying with Elwood Animal Care and the Animal Protection League.

“We’ve been at capacity since June,” Animal Protection League director Maleah Stringer said. “We don’t know what we’re going to do. We’re already working on a shoe-string budget.”

Elwood police said they found 39 cats and two dogs living in their own filth Monday. They arrested Denise Ackley and Elwood Animal Care took in the animals.

Tuesday, officers said they found 10 cats, four kittens, six dogs and two children inside a home with feces spread across the floor.

Police arrested Richard and Cynthia Kellermeyer on charges on animal neglect and neglect of a dependent.

Madison County Sheriff’s detectives said they found 10 dogs, two cats and several burdens living in deplorable conditions Wednesday. Animal care workers helped them seize the animals and health workers condemned the property.

Detectives said no charges have been filed in the case from Wednesday. The animals were taken to the Animal Protection League Wednesday night.

“It’s just so sad,” Stringer said, “The shelters constantly are cleaning up the public’s messes. This is public irresponsibility.”

Stringer said some of the animals are flea-infested or wounded. A veterinarian will examine each of the animals.

Both shelters are looking for donations.

You can learn how to help at the Animal Protection League’s website and Elwood Animal Care’s Facebook page.