Wagoner County deputies rescued approximately 89 animals Thursday from a property with deplorable conditions, with an additional 11 animals expected to be rescued Friday to bring the total to 100.
Animal Neglect Investigation Leads to Rescue
The rescue followed a month-long investigation into the animals’ living conditions, prompted by reports of neglect. Deputies served a search warrant at the property and found widespread neglect, including urine and feces throughout the home. Wagoner County Sheriff Chris Elliott stated that deputies initially tried to work with the property owners, offering guidance and opportunities to improve the animals’ care, but conditions continued to deteriorate.
“It’s a menagerie of different animals, we’ve got dogs, we’ve got cats, we’ve got goats, we’ve got horses, there’s many different animals out here,” Elliott said. He also noted that some animals appeared to be sick or malnourished.
Rescue Effort Involves Statewide Organizations
Rescue organizations and volunteers from across Oklahoma assisted with removing the animals, which included dogs, cats, horses, goats, and turkeys. The Oklahoma Alliance for Animals was among the groups helping with the effort. Organization President Jamee Suarez commented on the prevalence of animal hoarding cases in the state.
“People just get a little in over their heads with animals. They start taking them in and thinking they can take care of all these animals and they can’t,” Suarez said.
No Immediate Arrests, Investigation Continues
Deputies do not expect to make any arrests at this time. Evidence gathered during the investigation will be forwarded to the Wagoner County District Attorney’s Office, which will decide if criminal charges are warranted. The rescue groups noted that such efforts can strain their resources due to limited space and rising costs for animal care. The Sheriff’s Office has encouraged community support by donating animal food, supplies, or funds, with drop-off locations at the Wagoner County Courthouse, the District 1 Commissioner’s Barn in Broken Arrow, and the Emergency Management office in Coweta.
