On Monday, Columbus police and animal care workers responded to a distress call from a local resident, leading to the rescue of multiple cats and dogs from deplorable living conditions.
The operation unfolded in the 3500 block of 17th Avenue, where neighbors had been disturbed by incessant barking emanating from a seemingly abandoned house. The exterior of the property, characterized by overgrown weeds and overflowing trash cans, hinted at the neglect inside.
Animal control officers were seen removing four dogs using specialized poles with collars, which they then safely placed into transport vehicles. Additionally, around twenty cats were rescued, each being carefully transported in cages to ensure their safety.
The intervention came after Claire O’Connor, a nearby resident walking her dogs, heard the distressing barks Monday morning. She reported seeing the tenant vacate the premises the previous Sunday, apparently leaving the animals behind without care.
Peering through a window, O’Connor described the horrifying conditions within: animals in apparent desperation were eating their bedding and cat litter due to lack of food. Alarmed, she immediately contacted the Columbus police, who directed her to animal control. After filing a report, she noticed a 72-hour notice on the property but took to Facebook to expedite rescue efforts, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
Amy Ellington, another concerned citizen, saw O’Connor’s Facebook post and promptly visited the house. Upon learning that animal control could only act after 72 hours from the report, she contacted the police directly, resulting in a faster response. Within half an hour, police had assessed the situation and expedited the arrival of animal control.
Ellington expressed her relief and gratitude towards the community’s quick response, noting that it was “heartwarming” to see such unity in the face of a “sad situation.”
Thanks to the efforts of O’Connor, Ellington, and the rapid response of Columbus police and animal care workers, these animals are now safe and in the process of receiving the care they desperately need.
