Animals seized in dog-fighting investigation

Posted by Press Release on February 26, 2018

Rabbits, as well as dogs, were seized in the raid.

The Brandywine Valley SPCA took six dogs and four rabbits into its care on Wednesday, Feb. 21, following their seizure by Pennsylvania State Police at a residence in Coatesville. The dogs were seized as evidence in the case against a man now facing charges that include cruelty to animals and possession of dog fighting paraphernalia, including treadmills and medical supplies affiliated with training and treatment, as well as drug and weapons charges.

One of the dogs seized shows scars from fights.

The animals were immediately transferred to the BVSPCA West Chester Campus for evaluation and care. BVSPCA medical staff assessed the dogs to be in fair condition and the rabbits to be in poor condition related to inadequate housing and lack food and water. All ten animals will remain in the care of the BVSPCA as evidence as the case goes through the judicial process.

This case developed over several months following a traffic stop by State Police in Avondale on Nov. 12, when a dog with severe wounds was found in the car. The driver, now the suspect in this case, identified the dog as a stray, at which point the BVSPCA took possession of the dog.

The adult mixed breed dog had extensive and recent wounds on her face, legs and chest that BVSPCA veterinarians identified as consistent with bite wounds. The dog, now named Nibbles, required two months of medical care, including reconstructive surgeries for her jaw and several surgeries to treat her wounds. A BVSPCA surgery technician has been fostering Nibbles, and she is now available for adoption into a forever family.

“It is beyond comprehension that animals could be forced to suffer like this for entertainment,” said Adam Lamb. “We’re grateful for the diligence of the state Police in pursing this case, and we’ll support them in every way possible to find justice for these animals and prevent future suffering.”

The BVSPCA asks for the community’s help meeting the significant cost of medical care for Nibbles and what is likely to be a long period of care and rehabilitation for the other ten animals while the case works through the judicial process.

Donations can be made at https://secure.qgiv.com/event/bvspca-crueltyvictims/ or by mail to: Brandywine Valley SPCA, 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, PA 19382.