Shelter Founder Charged With Animal Cruelty For Second Time In Westchester

Following the death of two dogs who were denied veterinary care, the founder of a Northern Westchester animal shelter was criminally charged for the second time in a year, officials announced.

Felix and Nelly, two Cattle Dog/Australian Shepherd, had to be euthanized after they were found suffering from Distemper Virus at the Rescue Right shelter in Bedford, SPCA officials said. — Felix and Nelly, two Cattle Dog/Australian Shepherd, had to be euthanized after they were found suffering from Distemper Virus at the Rescue Right shelter in Bedford, SPCA officials said.
Photo Credit: *SPCA Westchester*

Ben Crnic

11/14/2024 1:00 p.m.

Bedford resident Penny Berk, the founder and owner of the Rescue Right animal shelter at Northwind Kennels in Bedford at 402 Old Post Rd. (Route 172), was arrested for a second time and charged with two counts of animal cruelty, SPCA Westchester announced on Wednesday, Nov. 13.

Berk was first arrested on animal cruelty charges on Thursday, July 18 in connection with the deaths of sick Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Earlier Report - Shelter Founder from Bedford Charged With Animal Cruelty After Death Of 5 Dogs

According to SPCA officials, the events leading to Berk's second arrest began on Oct. 4, 2023, when two Cattle Dog/Australian Shepherd mixes in her care were found in distress with severe symptoms of the Distemper Virus.

The two dogs, named Felix and Nelly (formerly Sasha), were found to be coughing and had difficulty breathing. They were also lethargic and had visible nasal discharge.

The dogs were brought to a nearby animal hospital and diagnosed with the virus. Soon after, they were euthanized, as their conditions had "deteriorated to the point that they could not be saved," officials said.

Officials also added that Berk could not produce records that either dog had received veterinary care. The two dogs had entered Rescue Right on or before April 30, 2023.

After her second arrest, Berk was charged with two additional counts of animal cruelty, in addition to the five counts she was originally charged with in July when five Bernese Mountain Dogs were found in critical condition at Rescue Right, according to the SPCA.

These five dogs were also found to be suffering from Distemper Virus and were allegedly denied medical care. They all had to be euthanized to prevent their further suffering, officials said.

"Felix and Nelly, like the 5 Bernese Mountain Dogs, were neglected for too long by Ms. Berk. They suffered and never truly had a chance," SPCA officials said on Wednesday.

Berk will next appear in the Mount Kisco Justice Court on Monday, Jan. 6.

Anyone who witnesses or suspects animal abuse or neglect in Westchester should call the SPCA's Cruelty Hotline at 914-941-7797.

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