VERNON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (1010 WINS) – Officials seized over 90 maltreated dogs from a self-described animal rescue group in New Jersey, earlier this week, authorities said.
On Feb. 20, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals assisted in the removal of more the maltreated dogs from a property in Vernon Township.
The animals, including young puppies, were seized by law enforcement after they were found living in filthy conditions among their own feces and urine and exposed to high levels of ammonia.
Some of the animals were dirty with severely matted coats, including one dog who was found with nails matted into their fur. Some dogs were also underweight and had untreated medical conditions including eye infections and injuries.
Several dogs were living in cars, and deceased dogs were also found on the property.
The owners of the property, Gizela Juric and Ronald Colgan, were charged with six counts of animal cruelty charges relating to both the deceased dogs found on the property as well as the failure to provide the animals with necessary care.
Juric was previously charged with animal cruelty on Feb. 2, in connection with the death of a fifth dog in her care.
"The ASPCA is grateful to be in a position where we can collaborate with local agencies across the country to provide critical resources and expertise to rescue at-risk animals and bring them to safety,” Teresa Ladner, senior director of Investigations for the ASPCA said.
"It’s clear these dogs were not receiving adequate treatment despite the fact that they were under the care of a self-described animal rescue group, and we commend the Sussex County Prosecutor’s Office and the Vernon Township Police Department for intervening to help end their suffering,” Ladner added.
The ASPCA transported the dogs to its Cruelty Recovery Center and is also assisting with the ongoing investigation.