Norwalk police investigate animal hoarding case involving 60 dogs and cats

April 18th, 2024 by Ric Hanson

NORWALK, Iowa — Norwalk police are investigating a case of 60 dogs and cats living in filth at a Norwalk home. Police got a tip about a house full of animals that smelled bad. They notified the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, who removed the animals. The ARL says the scene at the Norwalk home was like a nightmare: “57 dogs and puppies, some just days old, and 3 cats were trapped inside the home. The floors of the house were covered in trash and feces, and the smell was overwhelming. Some dogs were trapped in kennels while others roamed free.

“The dogs themselves were in terrible shape. All were crawling with fleas, and many had skin that was red and raw from scratching. Some, including young puppies, had hair loss all over their bodies. Several dogs had scarred, cloudy eyes. One hopped around on three legs, holding her fourth up at an odd angle.” There were also many dead dogs.

Charges are pending against the homeowner. The ARL says you can make donations if you’d like to help care for the surviving dogs and cats. They also hope to put the animals up for adoption once their health improves.