SPCA SEIZES REPTILES, DOMESTICS FROM SOUTH BUFFALO HOME
Friday, September 2, 2005
By: Gina Browning, Public Relations Director, 716-629-3505

Rescuers Say Animals are Severely Malnourished

An anonymous animal cruelty call late Thursday afternoon led to an SPCA investigation of an Alamo Place residence, where SPCA officials found numerous reptiles and other animals in near-starving conditions. Among the reptiles were a boa constrictor, a Savannah monitor, an iguana, and two geckos; other animals included a rabbit and a quail. The animals were seized by the SPCA this afternoon.

 "By New York State law, our organization can seize animals without a warrant when the cruelty conditions are this extreme," says SPCA Senior Investigating Agent Michael Armatys. "We were admitted onto the premises by one of the residents, and once we saw the animals, there was no question that we were taking them."

SPCA Wildlife Administrator and veterinary technician Joel Thomas was also on the premises at the time of the investigation. "Just by appearance, before we even give these animals physicals, it's clear they've been served no food and given no water for an extended period of time," Thomas commented from the scene. "We'll bring them back to the shelter, immediately get them what they need, and hope for the best."

The animals were brought to the fully-equipped infirmary at the SPCA's Tonawanda shelter, where they will be provided with food, water, medical care, and continuous observation by  veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and rehabilitators.

Charges against the animals' owner are pending.