Orangeburg County Magistrate Peggy Doremus set bond at $10,000 personal recognizance on Thursday for alleged president of Coastal Jack Russell Terrier Rescue, Daphne Lugo. The Santee woman was charged with three counts of ill treatment of animals and was also ordered to remove all posts from the Internet and immediately cease rescuing dogs until the case is resolved.
According to the TandD.com, authorities responded to complaints of animal neglect and foul odors at Lugo's property located at 5390 Five Chop Road. Last Friday a search warrant was issued, and officials removed 60 dogs and two donkeys.
Most of the dogs were found to be in advanced stages of malnutrition and neglect. Dogs were kept in cages soiled with feces and urine. There was little food or water available. Many suffered from fleas and worms. Two of the dogs had to be euthanized.
Several dead dogs were found in plastic bags in the garage.
The animals are currently being cared for at the Orangeburg County Animal Control and Shelter. According to the organization's Facebook page, they have reached out to the public to help with donations of money and needed animal necessities for these dogs. Earlier this week their Facebook page stated:
"WE APPRECIATE ALL OF THE GIFTS AND DONATIONS MADE TO OUR AGENCY IN THIS TIME OF NEED. WE ARE SO HAPPY THAT WE CAN CALL ON OUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS FOR SUPPORT IN OUR FIGHT AGAINST ANIMAL CRUELTY."
The dogs will not be available for adoption until the case is settled or with other agreements . If you would like to help Animal Control with the expenses involved with such a large rescue endeavor, pet supplies can be dropped off at 1596 Ellis Ave, Orangeburg or call (803)-534-0045.
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