Dozens of cats and three dogs in various stages of neglect were rescued today from a Moreno Valley home in the 22000 block of La Jolla Drive and are now receiving medical evaluation and treatment as needed at the City’s Animal Shelter.
Police, who discovered the animals when they arrived to do a welfare check on the home’s occupant, reported that most of the cats were found confined in cages. As a result of neglect, 18 cats were reported dead. The surviving cats are now being cared for at the Animal Shelter.
Police report that the occupant was taken into custody.
“Our first priority is to see that these animals get the proper medical care they deserve,” said Animal Services Director Steve Fries. “Ultimately, we want to see that each of these cats and dogs ends up adopted into loving homes.”
Fries explained that the City’s Animal Shelter is prepared to handle the sudden influx of so many felines and that the rescued cats are being cared for in a separate treatment area.
Fries noted, however, that space is limited at the Shelter and that he hopes residents will open their hearts and homes to the rescued animals. Some of the cats could be ready for adoption in about two weeks. The Animal Shelter, located at 14041 Elsworth St., is open Tuesday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.