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40 Animals Found Dead In Columbia Home, 4 Survivors Up For Adoption

COLUMBIA, Md. (WJZ)--It was a horrific case of animal abuse. More than 40 animals were found dead in one home.

Monique Griego has an update on the animals that survived and their alleged caretakers.

Neighbors watched the gruesome scene unfold, as police pulled the bodies of 40 dead animals from a home on Lambeth Court in Columbia.

"It was just sickening. My wife, she was going to throw up. She was disgusted," said Michael Antonucci, neighbor.

Inside were dead cats, rabbits, birds, snakes and guinea pigs, some of which were stuffed in a freezer. And despite not being fed for a week, two cats were among the four animals found sick but alive.

"If there's a ray of good news, that's it," said Rick Garner, neighbor.


After being nursed back to health, the cats, along with a bearded dragon lizard and a gerbil, are now up for adoption.

"It's great that now they can be adopted by a loving family and will be taken care of," Garner said.

Neighbors believe the renters who lived here have moved out. And while the investigation against them continues, no charges have been filed against them.

"A lot of these people don't see they have a problem," said Dr. Gregory Chasson, psychologist.

Chasson says hoarders often have good intentions but can become overwhelmed by trying to take care of so many animals.

"So what happens is they become neglected and the very intention of doing good for them is squandered," Chasson said.

Still neighbors want the caretakers to be held accountable.

"It seems like there should be some charges at some point that come out, " Garner said.

Howard County Animal Control is still trying to determine exactly how the animals died and who was their main caretaker. They say animal cruelty charges are still possible.

If you would like to adopt any of the rescued pets, contact animal control in Columbia at 410-313-2780.

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