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The Oswego County SPCA is urgently asking for public help after more than 150 animals were rescued from what officials describe as one of the worst cases of animal abuse ever seen in Oswego County.
On Friday (April 17), Oswego County sheriff’s deputies and SPCA investigators discovered the animals—ranging from chickens, ducks, and pigs to cats, dogs, cows, goats, sheep, and chinchillas—at a mobile home on Tudo Road in the town of Mexico. According to Oswego County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Andrew J. Bucher, the investigation began when an officer visiting the property for an unrelated case noticed signs of neglect, including dead animals being eaten by others, piles of waste, and a strong stench of sewage and ammonia.
Authorities obtained a search warrant and quickly called in over 50 volunteers and local animal welfare groups. The team worked late into the night rescuing surviving animals, many of which were severely malnourished or living in filthy conditions contaminated with raw sewage and feces. Some animals were already dead when found.
The SPCA said, "Every large-scale cruelty response places an enormous burden on the organization and its rescue partners, particularly when multiple cases occur within a short period of time," as reported by Oswego County News Now. The group is seeking donations to provide care and treatment for the rescued animals. Those able to help can donate or offer to foster domestic animals, especially cats, through the SPCA’s website or by calling (315) 297-4900.
Officials say no criminal charges have been filed yet, but charges are pending as the investigation continues. The rescued animals are currently being evaluated and will be relocated to safe environments in the coming days.
The property owner was not present during the rescue operation. In response to ongoing animal cruelty cases, the Oswego County Legislature recently passed a law creating an online registry of convicted animal abuse offenders, prohibiting listed individuals from owning animals within the county, according to Oswego County Today.
Community members are encouraged to support the SPCA’s efforts to care for these animals and prevent future abuse.