Police say they removed more than 30 animals from a west Chatham County home Wednesday after reports of hoarding.
Officers responding to the residence on Ben Butler Road Wednesday morning seized four cats that needed immediate veterinary care, said Eunicia Baker, Savannah-Chatham police spokeswoman.
Contact was made with two adults residing in the residence. They refused police officers’ request to investigate the welfare of other animals throughout the property.
A search warrant was obtained after police observed multiple animals with signs of respiratory distress through the windows of the residence, Baker said. A strong odor also was encountered.
Patrol officers, detectives and animal control officers became involved.
During the warrant service Wednesday afternoon, police removed 28 additional animals found inside the residence, Baker said. Among them were seven dogs believed to be Chihuahuas, 19 cats of various ages and breeds, one gray squirrel and one African spur thigh tortoise.
All of the animals appeared distressed from the living conditions, Baker said. They are now under veterinary care.
This investigation is ongoing and charges are pending against the owners of the animals.