Philadelphia, PA (January 30, 2019) - The Pennsylvania SPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement team rescued two emaciated animals, a puppy and a kitten, from a filthy basement in the Strawberry Mansion section of the city on Wednesday.
The PSPCA’s cruelty hotline received a tip from a concerned citizen regarding the animals. Responding Humane Law Enforcement officers found the young kitten in a small cage covered in excrement. The kitten, who has since been named Grace, was in a skinny to emaciated condition. Additionally, a young puppy, since named Frankie, was found running loose in the basement. The puppy was also in an emaciated condition, weighing in at just 13 lbs.
The owner of the animals was on location during the rescue, and surrendered both Grace and Frankie to the Pennsylvania SPCA. The duo is being treated at the PSPCA’s Shelter Hospital where they will be monitored as they work to attain an appropriate weight, and will then be available for adoption.
Animal cruelty charges are pending against the owner of Grace and Frankie.
“While we brace for the extreme cold in Philadelphia, it is important to remember that animal cruelty happens each and every day, both outside where it is visible, and inside behind closed doors or in dark basements,” said Nicole Wilson, Director of Humane Law Enforcement for the Pennsylvania SPCA. “It is, and has always been, our mission to protect animals from abuse and neglect, not just during weather extremes, but each and every day, 365 days a year.”
To report animal abuse, call the Pennsylvania SPCA's cruelty hotline, (866) 601-SPCA.
About the Pennsylvania SPCA
Since 1867, the Pennsylvania SPCA, a non-profit 501(c)3 organization headquartered at 350 East Erie Avenue, Philadelphia, has been dedicated to preventing animal cruelty and rescuing animals from abuse and neglect. The Pennsylvania SPCA's lifesaving programs for animals include a low-cost veterinary clinic, low-cost spay and neuter services, pet adoption facilities, and the Pennsylvania SPCA Humane Law Enforcement Department. For more information about adopting, donating or volunteering, please call (215) 426.6300 or visit www.pspca.org.