Animal haven shares update on 17 dogs from Bedford County hoarding case

BEDFORD COUNTY, Pa. (WTAJ) — Abby’s Angels , an animal haven that works to help rescue, is giving an update on the dogs that were rescued from a hoarding situation in December.

The organization took in 17 dogs from the situation some of which they said were in the most severe cases. The dogs had infections, and lice and needed X-rays, bloodwork, dental care and vaccines.

The 90 dogs rescued from the hoarding situation were reportedly in cages that were stacked from the floor to the ceiling. Police also noted that the animals were malnourished and covered in feces and urine. The two people who are accused of neglecting the animals are facing nearly 1,000 charges and are scheduled to be in court later this month.

Of the 17 dogs that Abby’s Angels took, 14 were adopted. Kelli Petrarca, who fostered one of the dogs, says she’s excited that most have already found loving homes.

“Some of these dogs have never touched grass before, they’ve not worn a collar, they’ve not known love, a clean crate, a clean blanket, any of this. Human touch,” Petrarca said. “As bad as their living environment was before they came to us, their whole world has changed for the better.”

Director and founder of Abby’s Angels, Nicole Wertz, said it wouldn’t have been possible without the help and support from the community.

“The community comes out to help when they’re really needed. It was a really big blessing to us that everyone came out in droves to help,” Wertz said. “They sent food, they sent treats. They helped with the medical expenses, which is phenomenal because we’re about at $35,000 in costs right now for the medical care.”

Wertz added that they’re still looking for homes for three dogs and that they’re still covering the vet costs for six of the dogs.

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You can donate to the organization here . More information about the dogs and how you can adopt or foster one can be found on the Abby’s Angels website .

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