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The Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in Menands is offering a 50 percent discount on adoption fees for all dogs and cats aged one year and older. This initiative comes as the shelter deals with an influx of animals following a major rescue operation in Westerlo. On June 25, the humane society, in collaboration with the Albany County Sheriff's Office and the Albany Police Department's Mounted Unit, rescued over 40 animals from a property in Westerlo. The animals, including 22 dogs, 15 horses, and a cow, were found in dire conditions without adequate food or water. The rescue operation is described as one of the most serious and costly undertaken by the society, with estimated care costs reaching $50,000 per month.
The animals are currently being cared for as evidence in an ongoing legal case against their owner, Tanja Morse, who faces multiple charges of animal cruelty. This is not Morse's first offense; she has been accused of similar neglect cases in the past, including the mistreatment of over 100 animals in 2017.
To support the care of these animals, the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society is urgently seeking donations from the community. The funds will cover veterinary care, proper nutrition, and safe shelter. Marguerite Pearson, the director of marketing and communications for the society, emphasized the importance of community support, saying, "We're hoping the community will support us and create a brighter future for these animals."
For those interested in adopting a pet or donating, more information can be found on the society's website, mohawkhumane.org. The shelter is open Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.