Two horses seized from neglect
Somers, CT (US)Incident Date: Monday, Nov 1, 2010
County: Tolland
Disposition: Alleged
Alleged: Melonie Nadeau
Today state animal control officers, with the assistance of the Somers Resident seizing two horses belonging to Melonie Nadeau.
The investigation was begun on Aug. 9, after the Connecticut Department of Agriculture received a complaint alleging animals at the Somers farm were malnourished. During the investigation, the department received several more complaints with similar allegations of animal neglect.
State animal control officers conducted several site visits and determined that the horses were not receiving proper nutrition and veterinary care. The officers made several attempts to obtain voluntary compliance, and issued an order to have the animals examined by a veterinarian and for Ms. Nadeau to follow the veterinarian's recommendations.
Commissioner of Agriculture Philip Prelli remarked, "The investigation indicated that Ms. Nadeau failed to follow the recommendations of her veterinarian regarding feed and care of these animals. As this animal neglect was ongoing, the Department decided the best course of action for these animals was to take them into our custody."
At this time, the horses are not available for adoption. The department will be seeking ownership of these animals through the civil court system. Once the department has rehabilitated the animals, they will be offered to the public by auction as required by state law.
Donations to help offset costs of care can be made by check to the Animal Abuse Cost Recovery Account, Connecticut Department of Agriculture, 165 Capitol Ave., Hartford, CT 06106. References |
