Investigators found dogs living in deplorable conditions
KINGSTON – A woman, who is an AKC registered breeder of Shetland Sheepdogs, has been arrested by the Ulster County SPCA Law Enforcement Division and State Police following an investigation and execution of a search warrant.
Authorities found the interior of the residence and much of the property in the immediate area outside was filled with debris, rotten garbage and waste, both human and canine. Indications in the home suggested that the owner continued to live there, despite the unhealthy environment. Investigators discovered a bed, clothing, and food amid the waste and feces.
It is believed that the owner, Jill Hamilton, 63, is a registered AKC breeder of Shetland Sheepdogs, under the name “Adalia Kennels.”
Hamilton is facing criminal charges of at least one misdemeanor count of animal cruelty per animal. Five dogs were removed and taken to the UCSPCA Town of Ulster location for medical evaluation.
“The conditions these dogs were forced to live in is appalling, conditions even more offensive given the apparent certification of this location as a breeding operation,” said Ulster SPCA Executive Director Adam Saunders. “Ulster County Executive Mike Hein pushed for inspections of registered breeders in 2015, an effort blocked by the American Kennel Club and local residents. It’s incredibly sad to think that their efforts allowed these dogs to suffer in this environment for a year longer than necessary, had the proposed animal protection legislation passed. Perhaps this is the wake-up call needed to revisit this issue.”
