RICHMOND, Va. – The Richmond Wildlife Center is asking for the communities help after the organization took in 88 animals in one of the largest hoarding cases in Virginia history.
“Our veterinarians and volunteers are working non-stop to treat, feed and shelter these animals. It’s the largest intake we’ve ever done, and most will need medical attention to get them healthy and ready for adoption in the coming weeks,” said Melissa Stanley, Executive Director, Richmond Wildlife Center.
The organization took in chickens, ducks, geese, guinea fowl, guinea pigs, pigeons, rabbits and turkeys.
Because of the astronomical cost to take care of the animals. the Richmond Wildlife Center is asking the community to make donations, volunteer, or adopt.
“More than ever we need the community’s help,” said Stanley. “Most of the animals we’ve admitted will need antibiotics to treat infections, some will require surgery and there’s also a need to build additional enclosures in the next few days.”
Officials say the organization is asking for cash donations, as well as gift cards to Home Depot, Kroger, Lowes, Petco, PetsMart, Southern States and WalMart to help cover the cost of sheltering and feeding. Those financial contributions can be here.
The organization is also asking for volunteers, veterinarians, vet techs, as well people who would like to help feed, shovel hay and clean animal enclosures. Training will be provided to volunteers.
Lastly, the organization is looking for loving homes for the animals.
“Loving pet homes will be needed in the coming weeks once Richmond Wildlife Center veterinarians have approved them for adoption,” said a spokesperson. “These animals will not be adopted for food (except in the production of eggs). The animals available for adoption include: a variety of chickens, ducks, geese, guinea fowl, guinea pigs, pigeons, rabbits and turkeys. Many of the animals are bonded and will need to be adopted in family groups or in pairs.”
If you’re interested in adoption, contact the Richmond Wildlife Center at (804) 378-2000 or email them, here.
The 88 animals are from the Louisa County hoarding case, where more than 500 animals were seized from a farm. Many animals were saved from a situation where they were sick and dying, and rehabilitated for safe and healthy adoptions.
Court documents show the farm owner, 77-year-old Clara Mae Collier was charged with five counts of animal cruelty. She could have been sentenced up to 12 months for each charge.
However, the judge sentenced Collier to six months for each charge, totaling 30 months, with all 30 of those months suspended. She won’t serve anymore jail time.
In addition, Collier was sentenced to two years’ probation, agreed to no longer possess any animals other than two birds, and allow animal control to check on her to ensure she does not possess more animals and that the birds are being treated properly.
