Pet Hoarding: Surviving Animals Seek New Homes

Four pets found alive after being abandoned for more than a week in a Columbia home have been nursed back to health and are now available for adoption, according to the Howard County Police Department.

Two cats, a gerbil and a bearded dragon lizard were found alive but in bad shape in a house in the 9600 block of Lambeth Court on Jan. 16.

Officials also found 40 dead animals in the house.

The four pets had survived despite being without food or water for more than a week. After recuperating and receiving necessary veterinary care, the four survivors are now ready for adoption, according to police officials.

In addition to the lizard and white gerbil, two Siamese cats described as a bonded pair are looking for new homes.

Officials are hoping the cats are adopted together.

Residents interested in any of the pets should contact the Howard County Animal Shelter and Adoption Center directly for more information on the adoption process.

Animal Control officials calculate adoption fees based on the actual costs of vaccines and spay/neuter surgery.

The animal shelter and adoption center is at 8576 Davis Road in Columbia. The  phone number is 410-313-2780.

Police continue work to determine who was responsible for the care of the animals, according to a police department statement.

Evidence has been sent to a laboratory to determine when and how the dead animals died. Officials expect to receive results in several weeks.

No charges have been filed at this time, according to the statement.