After responding to a call about potential animal cruelty and deputies searching a Bear Creek address on January 25, Chatham County Sheriff’s deputies realized they would need much more help addressing an alleged puppy mill.
According to a release from the office on Tuesday, investigators seized more than 150 dogs with the help of two national nonprofits, the BISSELL Pet Foundation and Animal Rescue Corps. Once the sheriff’s deputies saw the “severity of the conditions and the large number of dogs needing immediate care” at 1360 Oakley Church Road, they contacted BISSELL’s Animal Incident Management team, which began planning a response for the dozens of schnauzers, mini-schnauzers, and other breeds. The dogs were described as living in “deplorable conditions,” with several to each cage and surrounded by urine, feces, and even deceased dogs. Tuesday’s release described animals have having endured “severe neglect and prolonged exposure to high levels of ammonia, resulting in dehydration, malnutrition, parasites, untreated injuries and illnesses, severe matting, skin conditions, and other life-threatening medical conditions.”
Animal Rescue Corps representatives led the on-scene rescue operation by treating dogs’ medical needs, transporting them to shelter, and taking legal and evidential documentation. BISSELL’s Animal Incident Management team helped with the planning, field removal, volunteers, and funding for the operation, according to the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office.
“A seizure of this size and magnitude is a crisis for any animal shelter,” said Cathy Bissell, founder of BISSELL Pet Foundation, in the release. “We applaud the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office and Animal Resources for addressing this egregious case of neglect and cruelty. These animals have been bred for greed with no regard for their health or welfare.”
“Every rescued dog from a puppy mill represents a triumph against cruelty,” added Tim Woodward, Executive Director of Animal Rescue Corps. “We work to shed light on the dark reality of puppy mills and emphasize the transformative power of adoption in providing these animals with the love and care they deserve.”
On Tuesday, the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office arrested 48-year-old Kelly Dawn Privat over 10 counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty. Privat is registered to the address of 1360 Oakley Church Road. The county magistrate issued her a $10,000 secured bond and is scheduled to appear in court on the charges Monday, February 26.
The sheriff’s office previously charged 36-year-old Alicia Culberson with ten counts of animal cruelty after deputies searched the property, which is about a seven-minute drive southwest of Siler City. The initial investigation began after a citizen filed a “concern about the animals’ well-being” and were told of “distressing sounds coming from a large number of dogs around the residence.” At the time of the initial announcement of charges, the sheriff’s office said it removed six deceased dogs from the property and seized 38 living ones.
“We recognize that not all victims of abuse are people, and we take animal cruelty very seriously,” said Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson. “We’re committed to fully enforcing state laws, holding those responsible for such acts accountable. We’re also grateful for the assistance of BISSELL Pet Foundation and Animal Rescue Corps in helping address this situation. Together, as a community, we will work to ensure a safe and compassionate environment for all, human and animal alike.”
The two nonprofits are working with Chatham County officials to transport the dogs to “an undisclosed rescue facility” where they will undergo medical, physical, and social care. Tuesday’s update provided no available information whether the dogs would ever be put up for adoption — but it said those who wish to learn more about the organizations, donate to them or volunteer in support of the seized dogs, to visit Animal Rescue Corps’ website and the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s website.
Photo via Aimee Stubbs/Animal Rescue Corps.
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