Animals Surrendered to the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Animal Welfare Program

July 28, 2021

For more information contact: Jim Britt at: Jim.Britt@maine.gov

AUGUSTA - At the initial possession hearing for the animals seized Wednesday, July 14, in Sanford, the owner surrendered custody of all but two dogs and two cats to the State. The owner acknowledged an inability to care for the animals and received a lifetime animal possession ban. The owner can ask the court to amend the ban in five years. No charges will be filed. The Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Animal Welfare Program (AWP) is pleased with this outcome.

"The animals are getting the medical care and attention that they need to thrive," commented AWP Director Liam Hughes. "We are immensely grateful to all of the animal sheltering organizations, animal control officers, and volunteers who worked together on this important cause."

Individuals interested in adopting any of the animals should check shelter websites to see when they become available. AWP seized twenty horses, 11 chickens, two pigs, six dogs, six cats, two geckos, three rats, and one bearded dragon.

The AWP wishes to acknowledge the valuable support of staff and resources from the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals (MSSPA), Animal Welfare Society of Kennebunk and Harvest Hills Shelter of Fryeburg, the animal control officers and trained animal handlers, the Sanford Maine Police Department, and the York County Maine Sheriff's Office. These professionals cared for the animals and extended compassion to the owner. Without this group of people, this rescue would not have been possible.

Supporting documents

"Horses and animals recently seized in Sanford were surrendered to the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Animal Welfare Program." Photo courtesy Maine Animal Welfare Program.