Twenty-four animals were found and rescued from a property in Krugerville, the police said Monday.
The Krugerville Police Department arrested Peter Carrero on 17 charges of livestock and non-livestock animal cruelty, according to a release.
'The arrest stems from a welfare concern call received on the night of August 11, in which an anonymous caller reported possible neglect involving animals at a residence in Krugerville,' the police said.
Included in the menagerie were six puppies that the police found 'outside in extreme heat without adequate shelter, food, or water,' according to the release.
'Conditions observed at the scene led officers to believe that additional animals inside the home and behind the residence were also in need of immediate intervention,' the release said.
When they returned with a search warrant the next day, 'officers removed 18 additional animals from the residence, 24 in total, including additional dogs, a cat, a pair of axolotls, chickens, ducks a goose and rabbit, all of whom were determined to have various health-related concerns requiring prompt attention,' police said. They also found five bodies of additional animals who were already dead. ' All surviving animals are now in the care of Animal Control Services, where they are being evaluated and treated under a veterinarian’s supervision,' the release said. 'According to officials, the animals are recovering and doing well,' police said. 'A hearing held on Aug. 14 resulted in a court ruling that all seized animals remain in municipal custody and will be made available for adoption sometime soon.' The Krugerville Police Department staff encourages residents to follow the example set in the incident by the person who made the call. 'The Krugerville Police Department extends its appreciation to the anonymous caller for doing the right thing and helping protect animals that cannot ask for help themselves,' the release said.
