Hoarding dogs and cats is an increasing situation throughout the country and in the Milwaukee area. In an unusual situation, a Milwaukeean turned over her animals to the Wisconsin Humane Society. Unfortunately, most incidents are not reported until a noticeable stench permeates through the home and affects the neighbors.
The ASPCA estimated approximately 1,000 incidents of hoarding is reported each year. Not only dogs and cats fall prey to these do-gooders, reptiles, and farm animals have been subjected to these conditions.
Hoarding is a mental disability. Hoarders are individuals that are not aware that they are hoarding. It is difficult to identify a hoarder because some responsible pet owners have several animals. A hoarder’s home is usually in disrepair, the windows are noticeably dirty, the animals that are seen through the windows are usually emaciated due to lack of food and water. The residence has a strong ammonia smell because the urine soaked floors and caked feces.
It is important to remember that all multi-pet owners are not hoarders. Milwaukeeans can contact the Milwaukee Area Animal Control Commission if they suspect an individual might be a hoarder.
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