WASHINGTON — The staff members at the Montgomery County Animal Services Division and Adoption Center have their hands full. Along with dozens of cats and dogs already under their care, they’re evaluating 66 dogs that were confiscated by officers from a Rockville, Maryland, home on New Year’s Day.
Director Thomas Koenig explains his officers were investigating a reported dog bite at the home off Glen Mill Road on New Year’s Eve. But the homeowner was not cooperative. Koenig says the two officers — among the division’s most experienced — suspected there were a number of dogs on the property, and a strong odor at the home raised concerns about conditions at the property. That’s what led to the New Year’s Day raid.
“We thought we’d find 20 dogs — and we walked out with 66,” he says.
As of Monday afternoon, Koenig says it still wasn’t clear if the dog suspected in the bite case was among the 66 taken from the home.
“We haven’t been able to get through all the records — it took us almost 16 hours to process all of the animals — and that’s not even including capturing all the paperwork that attaches to these animals. So we’re doing all of that now,” Koenig says.
Koenig said reporters could not photograph or even look in on the confiscated dogs, because they’re considered evidence in an ongoing investigation. He says the dogs’ conditions vary.
“All I can tell you: there was a wide range of levels of care needed for these animals,” he says.
Because the case is still under investigation, and because no charges have been filed, Koenig could not name the homeowner. He did not give details about the initial dog bite that led to the confiscation.
Koenig did say that there have been a number of inquiries about adopting the dogs that were removed from the Rockville home. He said officials are “not there yet” — and said there are plenty of other animals currently waiting, and available for adoption.
In cases of cruelty or abuse, animals can be taken from their owners; or owners may surrender the animals. Koenig explained again that this case remains under investigation.