The week before, a major official operation took place in Gilgenberg (Upper Austria): the veterinary authorities had asked the Tierschutzhof Pfotenhilfe for help because a breeder was suspected of having numerous animals despite the ban on keeping animals. In fact, 25 dogs, 29 cats and a rabbit were found.
Pfotenhilfe boss Johanna Stadler was there herself: “The conditions were really shocking and appalling. 27 of the 29 cats were locked together in a neighbor’s completely soiled attic, where only large chunks of dry dog food and frozen water were found. The poor animals – usually purebred cats, such as Maine Coon cats or Bengal cats – screamed so loudly with thirst that you could hear them on the ground floor! that some of the cats were only a few months old. A Savannah cat, most of which is illegal to keep in Austria, was found in a transport box in the closet under the dirty laundry.”
Also found two litters of puppies
Adult animals as well as two litters of puppies were found among the dogs, which were about to be sold. “However, there are no associated parents, which could mean they were hidden and not found, or the puppies were bought,” Stadler suspects. In addition to two Kangals – one even with cropped ears, which is strictly forbidden in Austria – there were 20 Australian Shepherds and Border Collies and three Chihuahuas who were locked in various containers and drafty stable compartments with no heating despite night temperatures down to minus ten degrees.
Sick, neglected, infected with parasites
All animals were examined on the same day until late in the evening by veterinarian Mag. Michael Wimmer from Mattsee with the support of the Pfotenhilfe team: “They have various diseases, are neglected, suffer from a parasite infestation, are sometimes heavily matted, have ears and ear problems. Eye inflammation, runny nose and diarrhoea. There is also a good chance that several animals pregnant. Many of the cats were severely dehydrated at the time of collection because they had no or only frozen water available. Cruelty to animals of unbelievable proportions!” Stadler is shocked.
Complaint for animal cruelty
The breeder is also being prosecuted for animal cruelty (§222 StGB) reported, after which a prison sentence of up to two years is threatened.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
