The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is the process of rescuing of nearly 700 severely neglected animals from an unlicensed North Carolina animal “shelter,” marking the largest rescue in the organization’s 150-year history.

According to the ASPCA, more than 270 dogs, 250 cats, 40 horses, and numerous pigs were discovered in filthy kennels, cages, outdoor pens, and paddocks at an unlicensed facility, known as “The Haven.” The ASPCA responded to the scene after the local Sheriff’s Office received numerous complaints about sick animals adopted from the so-called rescue center. Sadly, this facility dubbed itself “North Carolina’s most successful no-kill shelter,” giving people the illusion that it was a sanctuary for animals. However, what the ASPCA found was as far from a refuge as one could get.

“These animals were betrayed by the promise of going to a place that was a safe haven for animals and it is anything but that,” said Tim Rickey, a representative of the ASPCA. “These animals had no clean place to go and even lay down.”

The Haven’s owners were arrested on charges of animal cruelty, and the ASPCA is assisting with evidence collection, animal removal, transport, sheltering and medical care.

Responders are providing much-needed medical attention to animals in critical condition and said that the animals will be transported to a temporary shelter until custody is determined by the court.

Sadly, there are countless animals suffering from neglect in cases like this all over the country.  You can help provide the much-needed care by making a donation to the ASPCA here.

 All image source: ASPCA