Garrard Co. works to relocate over 70 dogs rescued

Shelters across Kentucky help take in some of the 80 dogs found in unfit conditions; suspect’s court hearing delayed

LANCASTER, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) — The Garrard County Animal Shelter is working to relocate over 70 huskies discovered living in appalling conditions at a local home, according to shelter partners in Lexington. The dogs, all seized from a single residence, are now being dispersed to various animal rescue organizations.

According to the Garrard County Sheriff’s Office, deputies discovered the dogs in a Lancaster home under conditions described as “deplorable.” The Garrard County Animal Shelter, overwhelmed by the influx of animals, has temporarily closed its doors to the public and is not accepting additional strays at this time.

In response to the crisis, shelters across Kentucky are being called upon to assist in the relocation effort. Paws for the Cause in Lexington has stepped in, taking in some of the huskies. However, the organization reports that many more need placement, particularly as huskies require specialized care.

“They’re working dogs, so people have to understand the breed, you have to give them a job, and if you don’t give them a job they get themselves in trouble,” said  Anita Spreitzer with Pause 4 the Cause. “It’s a totally different story because the one that we have is about 50 pounds,” she said. “To take a big dog in that’s a lot, and to have that breed, you know, and you have an industry right now that flooded with all kinds of dogs, and now you’re putting 75 huskies into that mix, that is really putting a strain on the system,” said Spreitzer.

The homeowner, 64-year-old Dennis Kirkpatrick, faces charges of animal cruelty and torture. He has pleaded “not guilty” to the allegations. Kirkpatrick was scheduled for a court appearance earlier Monday, but according to court officials, this has been rescheduled his hearing to September 30th.

For those interested in fostering, PAWS for the Cause encourages visiting their website for more information.