Seized dogs are in poor condition

Adoption chances are called questionable.

By MOLLY MOORHEAD, Times Staff Writer
Published November 17, 2007

The malnourished and unsocialized dogs came to the attention of authorities who were investigating the death of a woman living in a home on Frost Drive in the Viva Villa subdivision of Hudson. Animal Services said that a total of 43 dogs were taken.
	[Stephen J. Coddington | Times]

LAND O'LAKES - The 43 dogs seized from a filthy house in Hudson this week are suffering from various maladies and their chances for adoption are questionable, Pasco's animal services chief said Friday.

Denise Hilton said the dogs, mostly mixed-breed juveniles, have worms and heavy flea infestations. Some are also anemic and malnourished.

The dogs were discovered Wednesday at a home on Frost Drive in the Viva Villa subdivision, after authorities went there to investigate the death of one of the home's residents.

Linda Lesack, 65, was the second person to die there in two weeks. Lois Lombardi, who was 65 and disabled, died Nov. 6. Her sister, Diane Lombardi, told authorities she got overwhelmed trying to care for Lois, who had cerebral palsy, but she didn't call animal control because she feared the dogs would be put down.

The inside of the house was carpeted in the animals' feces.

Hilton said that beyond their physical problems, the dogs have not been socialized. They will be given medicine and training before being considered for adoption.

[Last modified November 16, 2007, 21:57:29]