Large Seizure Has Animal Shelter Overflowing

A seizure of a large amount of animals Wednesday evening has the Salina Animal Shelter over capacity, and asking for help.

Salina Police Captain Mike Sweeney says that police officers and animal control officers, acting on a tip, discovered numerous prohibited animals inside a home at 1131 Prospect.

Salina Animal Shelter Animal Services Manager Vanessa Cowie says that three full grown pot bellied pigs, four dogs, over fifteen cats, and cages of rats and birds were found living inside the home, in unsanitary conditions. She says that among other things there was a strong ammonia smell in the house, and feces on the floor. Some of the animals also were not being properly fed and watered.

Most of the animals were confiscated, and taken to the Salina Animal Shelter. Cowie says that the facility was already at capacity at the time. They are trying to get some quick adoptions to help make space available. They are also asking for donations of bags of cat litter, and cans of cat food. Donations can be dropped off at the Salina Animal Shelter at 329 N. 2nd

Cowie say that this is the second time most of these animals have been seized. Back in October of 2014, they were seized from Playful Pets. At that time the business owner, 51-year-old Stephanie Pankratz, received multiple citations and the business closed. This past October she was found guilty of misdemeanor charges and subsequently got the animals back.

Pankratz Wednesday was again issued multiple citations. A further investigation into whether the animals can be returned is underway.

Sweeney adds that while seizing the animals police ended up arresting a 15-year-old girl on charges that could include assault of a law enforcement officer, interference with a law enforcement officer, and disorderly conduct. They also arrested a 35-year-old man who had outstanding municipal court warrants.