News
56 Cats and 2 Dogs Removed From New Britain Home
May 02, 2008, 8:28PM MT
By Kelli Banet
5 year old child also taken into custody.
5 year old child also taken into custody.
By Kelli Banet, Best Friends Network Volunteer
The heath department removed fifty six cats, two dogs, and a five year old child from a private New Britain residence. Their investigation was precipitated by an anonymous tip. The family was reportedly living in complete filth.
The animals were taken in by the Meriden Humane Society. Some are undergoing medical treatment.
Neighbors commented that the family members were animal lovers. Supposedly, they kept the animals inside because of traffic and wildlife concerns. You can view the original news story here.
Once again, we are left to ask ourselves, "How can this happen?" There is a line between being an animal lover/rescuer and an animal hoarder that some people fail to distinguish.
How many animals are too many?
The answer is different for each person or family. Questions to consider are:
• Can you afford to buy quality food for your animals on a regular basis?
• Can you keep the living area reasonably free of dirt and debris?
• Do you have enough square footage to accommodate humans and animals comfortably? Remember, cats also enjoy beams, ledges, and perches located above the ground level.
• Can you clean the litter boxes daily? Remember, there should be at least one litter box per cat.
• Can you give your animals individual attention on a daily basis?
• Can you afford routine veterinary examinations before new animals enter the house and at least once a year?
• Are ALL of your pets spayed or neutered?
• Do you have a reasonable emergency fund for unexpected expenses?
After the New Britain animals are evaluated, treated, and spayed or neutered they will be available for adoption. The Meriden Humane Society needs your help! They are currently in need of large dog crates, Yesterday's News cat litter, kitten chow, cat chow, canned cat food (no fish), Lysol wipes, towels, blankets, rugs, and of course, financial donations.
Other ways you can help:
Visit the Meriden Humane Society's Petfinder page here. They have several fundraising events scheduled during the month of May, including an adoption awareness weekend May 3rd and 4th.
Consider fostering or adopting one of these animals. For more information about fostering, contact Jillian Cheney at the Meriden Humane Society.
Posted by: Kelli Banet
Photo Credit (cats NOT related to this investigation): Kelli Banet