While investigating a Hartwell, South Carolina, property on August 20th, police found nine dogs chained to trees. The officials decided to act when it became apparent that the pet owner wasn't coming to care for the canines, according to The Independent Mail.
"For the third day in a row on our inspection, there was no food except for two bowls...but they were absolutely covered in fire ants," Sheriff Mike Cleveland told the news source. "We fed the dogs on Friday, and when we came back Saturday there wasn't any food put out, and the notice we had posted was still there."
The officials seized the dogs, along with nine cats who were found on the property, and the animals were taken to the Northeast Georgia Animal Shelter. The shelter's manager, Sheri Lockhart, informed the news provider that all the animals were underweight and infested with fleas. Many also had sores or hair loss.
Authorities say that the owner of the animals, June Price, lives in Belton, South Carolina, but her exact address is unknown. She was previously charged with animal cruelty in 2008, when approximately 20 dogs were taken from her property.
The ASCPA states that one of the most telltale signs of animal abuse is a malnourished pet who doesn't appear to have access to food or water. Abused pets are also often aggressive or frightened, especially in the presence of their owners.
While investigating a Hartwell, South Carolina, property on August 20th, police found nine dogs chained to trees.