CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. -- Authorities say an in-home animal rescue in Port Charlotte became out of control, with over 70 animals living in deplorable conditions inside.
Deputies with the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant Thursday at a home in the 100 block of Sunnyside Street in Port Charlotte.
That's where 72 animals were confiscated due to hoarding, including cats, pigs, reptiles, hamsters, rats, mice and a dog.
Animal Control Officers found the floors of the house covered in urine and feces.
The animal’s health issues range from significant to critical. Most of the animals are being held at the Animal Welfare League of Charlotte County.
"With the cats, we're seeing a lot of upper respiratory infections, which is like a cold in cats," said Jill Kirk, medical director at the Animal Welfare League. "Also, a lot of flea allergies and a lot of skin issues. But I'm very hopeful we're going to be able to save all of them."
The animal’s owner, Elizabeth Smock, was operating an animal rescue organization out of her home. Smock will have an upcoming court hearing to determine if she can keep the animals.
Smock was featured on an episode of "Animal Hoarders" on Animal Planet in 2011, when she had more than 20 cats.
