Animal Hoarding

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A Complex Issue

Animal “hoarding” can be identified when a person is housing more animals than they can adequately and appropriately care for. It is a complex issue that often encompasses mental health, animal welfare and public safety concerns. Animal hoarding is defined by an inability to provide even minimal standards of nutrition, sanitation, shelter and veterinary care—often resulting in over-breeding of animals, animal starvation, illness and even death. In some cases, guardians believe they are helping their animals and deny this inability to provide minimum care.

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How We Help

The ASPCA works closely with numerous social welfare agencies in New York City to provide veterinary services such as spay/neuter and vaccines and additional resources for pet owners. We also work with pet owners who may choose to surrender some of the animals in their home and help them adequately care for their remaining pets.

In severe cases that require police intervention, the ASPCA will work with local law enforcement and prosecutors to rescue, care for, and help get justice for the animals. Our assistance may include field rescue, temporary sheltering, investigative and legal support, forensic services, veterinary and behavioral care and, where there has been either a voluntary relinquishment of animals or court ordered forfeiture, placement of animals involved.

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