Animal advocates speak out after dogs found in ‘deplorable conditions’ in Lancaster

LANCASTER, Ky. ( FOX 56 ) — The number of abandoned dogs and animal cruelty cases across Kentucky is gathering attention from animal advocacy groups.

On Thursday more than 60 dogs were found “in extremely deplorable conditions” in a Lancaster home. Anita Spreitzer, Vice-President and General Manager, of Paws 4 the Cause, called it horrendous.

“The last two years have been horrendous. We have seen more dump dogs, starved dogs, and dogs in deplorable conditions, more than we’ve ever wanted to see,” said Spreitzer.

Spreitzer says she has been in the rescue business for 45 years, but it never gets easier when it comes to dealing with animals that are abused.

“If you have to look in their eyes and you see how defeated they are,” said Spreitzer.

Spreitzer said she related with the Garrard County Animal Shelter which took in the dogs rescued in the Garrard County home, on how such situations can be overwhelming.

“For Garrard County to have to take on something like this, on top of the fact that they have so many dogs right now in their shelter to begin with.”

LATEST KENTUCKY NEWS:

• Interested in solar panels? Lexington extends deadline for grant program
• 2 Kentucky cities make Money magazine’s ‘50 Best Places to Live in the US’
• Amber Spradlin’s family reacts to attorney of murder suspect’s request to dismiss indictment

She said she feels for the shelter and plans to take in some of the animals that were already there to make room for the dozens of huskies.

Spreitzer said lawmakers must also do their part, pushing for stricter laws and tougher penalties for those who harm animals.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 56 News.