Bethel residents accused of keeping more than 30 dogs in filthy conditions
Four Bethel residents are facing animal cruelty charges after more than 30 dogs and seven ferrets were found living in filthy conditions.
According to a Clermont County spokesperson, the animals were found in the 300 block of Campbell Lane.
Investigators said 34 dogs were confined to one room. The dogs were a mix of breeds and ages, but were mostly Chinese Crested.
Officials seized 38 dogs and seven ferrets that were found to be living in the conditions earlier this month.
Terri Sprague and Vikki Miller were arrested and released after posting bond, officials said. Two other defendants – Christopher Davis and Anthony Miller – will be arraigned next month.
“The conditions we saw are hard to describe but they were the worst I’ve ever seen,” Clermont County Deputy Dog Warden Steele said. “The smell of feces and urine were overpowering. The floor was covered inches deep in feces and the dogs were matted in feces and urine. None of the animals had fresh food or water. Their bowls were even filled with feces.”
The Clermont County Animal Shelter took possession of the animals after they were recovered by the dog wardens.