Humane society facing ‘unprecedented animal welfare challenge’ stemming from two cases

Community help needed following ‘record influx of cats;’ free adoptions through October 31

96 cats and one dog were recently rescued from a home in Catskill. A few days later, an additional 62 cats were rescued from another area residence.

Those two animal cruelty cases have left the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA with “an unprecedented animal welfare challenge” with the addition of 158 cats in just one week.

“This is an extraordinarily horrific situation, unlike anything we’ve experienced in terms of the sheer number of cats arriving in such a short period of time,” said Ron Perez, President/CEO of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA. “I cannot say enough about the outstanding work of the Catskill Police Department. Their investigation demonstrated tremendous dedication, compassion, and professionalism, and their efforts have quite literally changed the lives of nearly 100 cats and one dog” in one case.

“But now we need our community to help us complete what these dedicated professionals started,” Perez added, saying the additions require extra veterinary attention, housing, food, and daily care, placing extraordinary demands on shelter personnel and resources. “These cats have been rescued from neglect, and they’re going to be just fine. What they will need more than anything is someone willing to open their home and give them the love and security they’ve been missing.”

Cats rescued in the recent investigations will be available for adoption as soon as they are medically cleared.

So far, to offset the burden on the humane society, 40 of the rescued cats have been transferred to AnimalKind, a non-profit cat rescue organization based in Hudson.

But adopters are still needed: “Every cat placed in a loving home creates space and resources for another animal in need, making adoption the most immediate and meaningful way the public can help.”

As part of the Subaru Loves Pets® initiative, the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA is currently offering free adoptions for cats, dogs, and small animals through October 31, 2026. All cat adoption fees at AnimalKind are also being generously sponsored.

“For these animals, the worst is behind them. Their recovery is expected to be swift, their futures are promising, and the opportunity to give them a new beginning is within reach. What happens next depends on the generosity and compassion of the community.”

Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA
111 Humane Society Road, Hudson, NY 12534
Phone: (518) 828-6044
Website: www.cghs.org

AnimalKind
721 Warren Street, Hudson, NY 12534
Phone: (518) 822-8643
Website: www.animalkindny.org


“For these animals, the worst is behind them. Their recovery is expected to be swift, their futures are promising, and the opportunity to give them a new beginning is within reach. What happens next depends on the generosity and compassion of the community.”

 

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