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On hand to receive copies of the resolution were Director of the Bergen County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center (BCASAC) Deb Yankow, Bergen County Department of Health Director Dr. Nancy Mangieri and Sgt. Evan Kutzin from the Bergen County SPCA/Animal Cruelty Task Force. County Executive James J. Tedesco was also on hand to deliver a proclamation recognizing the month.
Yankow gave a presentation, highlighting the work of Bergen County’s animal cruelty investigators. She also discussed several high-profile animal hoarding and animal cruelty cases that the BCASAC and Bergen SCPA have responded to over the past year, to bring to light the growing issue of animal hoarding in Bergen County.
In 2012 the BCASAC responded to 5 SPCA referral cases affecting 10 animals but in 2015 this grew to 21 cases affecting 135 animals. In August of 2015 Bergen County investigators removed over 70 animals, mostly dogs, from a home in Westwood.
Many of the animals required extensive care to treat skin conditions, matted fur, and other health and behavioral issues. In April of 2014, 40 German Shepherds were also removed from cramped cages in the basement of a Ridgefield Park animal hospital.
Despite the challenges presented by both cases the shelter was able to place every animal in homes or rescues. One of the German Shepherd pups, Ethan, was even chosen to be trained as a service dog for a veteran.
“Bergen County has a vested interest in pursuing justice in cases of animal abuse or neglect, as these crimes often have broader implications in our communities,” said County Executive James J. Tedesco. “Therefore, I plan to appoint a special prosecutor experienced in the laws and regulations governing animal cruelty to ensure the full prosecution of these cases in our courts.”
The Bergen County SPCA works hand-in-hand with the Bergen County Animal Shelter & Adoption Center.
Click here for hours and information about adoptions.
The Shelter is located at 100 United Lane, Teterboro.
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