JOHNS ISLAND, S.C. (WCIV) — Pet Helpers released a statement Monday regarding their involvement in the incident involving over two dozen dogs in crates spotted at a Johns Island residence.
In their statement, they clarified that while they frequently visit Charleston County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Officers when animals require shelter or medical attention, Pet Helpers is not involved in field operations, rescues, investigations or direct the actions of Animal Control Officers.
On May 15, when the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office and Animal Control Officers arrived on property to investigate the reports, they found 25 dogs in 18 separate kennels. According to Pet Helpers, they received notification of this developing situation and offered their services.
They reportedly received five dogs from the site and provided vaccinations for three additional dogs who remained outside of the Pet Helpers facility.
The sheriff’s office stated the dogs were moved by the owner into a climate-controlled room later that day and the owner of the animals will not be facing any charges. Deputies returned to the property May 17 to follow up and found that all was well with the dogs and they were being taken care of.
READ MORE | ‘No ill intent:’ Sheriff’s office gives update on dogs spotted in crates on Johns Island
In Pet Helper’s statement they said that they provided those five initial dogs with full intake evaluations, including microchip scans, core vaccinations and wellness checks. They state that the dogs presented as well-groomed, in good health and did not require further medical intervention at the time of intake. The dogs were placed in the shelter where they received proper food, enrichment and daily care.
Pet Helpers says that the condition and the whereabout of the rest of the dogs is unknown as they only have information on the animals in their direct care.
“Final determinations regarding the outcome of the case rest with Charleston County Animal Services and the Sheriff’s Office, and we—like the public—await the release of their official findings,” they said in their statement.
Additionally, in response to the incident, Pet Helpers says that they are aware that Charleston County Councilmember Joe Boykin and Sheriff Carl Ritchie plan to meet and discuss potential updates to existing animal welfare ordinances.
“We welcome this conversation. Any new laws that work to improve the lives and treatment of animals in our community are a step in the right direction,” they said in their statement.
READ MORE | Animal control investigates dogs on Johns Island property but finds no violations
In light of the incident, Pet Helpers is reminding Lowcountry residents of just how many animals need homes, shelter and ongoing care.
They recommend that individuals interested in making a difference in the life of a shelter pet consider, adopting, fostering, volunteering your time or donating.
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