Watch closely any households in your neighborhood that keep large numbers of dogs or cats—they are very high risk for neglect. Look for signs: more and more animals, frequent litters, prominent hip bones, unkempt or thin fur, illnesses, and lethargic behaviors. The premises may be filthy and ramshackle. The owner may pose as a rescue to avoid intervention. Call the authorities immediately; this may be a “hoarder.”
Some animal lovers don’t understand their limits
Long-term animal suffering is the result, and in many instances, human suffering when children are involved. It is so very sad. A dedicated animal lover tries to provide a good home to a lot of animals—doesn’t that describe a lot of us? But a hoarder adds more animals to their household than they can support and care for—and this is important so please note—they deny that the care they provide is inadequate. They deny that their animals and others in the household are suffering.
What are the signs?
Look at the animals. Are they spayed and neutered (no litters)? Do they have good quality food and fresh water daily? Do they appear to be healthy and groomed? Are the animals contained safely (not roaming)? Are the premises clean, tidy, and in good repair? Does the owner invite friends and neighbors to visit, allowing access to the animals? This is an animal lover who is emotionally and financially capable of caring for many animals. As long as the situation is stable and the number of animals kept does not violate any local ordinances, there is not a problem here.
I have many friends who can be described as above. Animal lovers with some means tend to have large fur families! Many are involved in rescue and they make the world a better place for animals.
A serious problem can arise when an animal lover is mentally ill and is not able to recognize that their animals need more care. They deny that any of their animals are suffering–even if confronted about the animal carcasses on their property. They rationalize about any ill animal’s condition and the poor condition of the property, if you can coax them to converse with you at all (many are reclusive).
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“Someone found them in an abandoned old building in Floyd County”