20 Sick Cats Rescued, Owner Arrested for Abuse

209 TimesSan Joaquin County, Stockton Leave a Comment

20 Sick Cats Rescued, Owner Arrested for Abuse

Per San Joaquin County Sheriff:

“On July 6, 2022, Animal Service Officers responded to a trailer in the 4200-block of Waller Road in Stockton to reports of extremely foul odors and an excessive number of cats at the location.

Upon making contact at the trailer, the smell of cat urine was so strong that Waterloo/Morada Fire was called to help ventilate the property, and County Environmental Health responded with equipment to ensure that ammonia levels were safe for human entry. Everyone who entered the trailer wore chemical-protection suits and masks.

Numerous cats were observed throughout the trailer, some running loose and some in cages. All appeared to be in poor health. Cat feces was everywhere – floors, countertops, on top of appliances. The floor was described as “spongy.”

20 cats were recovered from the residence, and all displayed signs of respiratory infection and flea infestation. Due to the number of animals, they had to be housed at multiple shelter locations throughout the county. They are all awaiting medical attention.

Due to the extreme state of neglect, as well as other factors, 58-year-old Deborah Fenning, of Stockton, was arrested and booked on 20 counts of felony animal cruelty. This is the first in-custody arrest for our Animal Services Unit in anyone’s memory.

This investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming. No further information is available for release at this time.

Remember, if you own pets, it is YOUR responsibility to feed them, house them, and obtain appropriate care for them.”

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