Neglecting dogs
Smithfiled, NC (US)Incident Date: Tuesday, Mar 9, 2004
County: Johnston
Disposition: Alleged
Case Images: 1 files available
Alleged: Kevin Saunders
Some Johnston County residents believe one of their neighbors is abusing his dogs so badly, the animals should be removed and charges should be filed.
Neighbors of Kevin Saunders said they found 10 dogs, including at least two pit bulls and five 3-week-old puppies, chained or penned up with no shelter from the cold or rain on his property.
Neigbor claims the dogs often go without food and water.
"All one of them has is a mud puddle to drink from, which may very well be dried up by now," stated neigbor. The Neigbor and other residents are concerned about the dogs' situation for several reasons.
"I'm concerned for the safety of those dogs. But, not just for the safety of the dogs, but the safety of the children and the people of the neighborhood," neighbor said. "Because, if those dogs are not being treated properly and get out of their pens or off of their leashes, then what will happen?"
Johnston County Sheriff Steve Bizzell has also expressed concern about the animals' treatment.
"It's unacceptable and unethical. It just isn't right. Somebody's got to look after those animals if the owners are not going to do it. The (dogs) need to be removed from the home," Bizzell stated.
Johnston County Animal Control officer visited Saunder's residence recently. The officer fed the dogs and posted a final warning on Saunder's door.
"If (the owners) do not contact me within a 24-hour period, we will issue a search and seizure warrant and seize the animals based on animal cruelty," the officer said.
Saunders showed up at the home before the animal control officer left. His neighbors said it was the first time he had been there since Friday, March 5, 2004.
But Saunders had a different story.
"The dogs are being fed. They had knocked the water over and I was coming over here," Saunders said. "I just got off work."
Saunders had no comment when he was asked if he was abusing the dogs or using them to fight. He walked away and began arguing with his neighbors.
Saunder's problems got worse Tuesday. Shortly after noon, a Johnston County Sheriff's deputy served him with a domestic violence protection order. His wife, Mary Lennon, claims he threw her to the ground during an argument.
The order was issued for ten days. References« NC State Animal Cruelty Map
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