75 Animals Rescued from Ashtabula Hoarding Case
The Ashtabula County Animal Protective League (ACAPL) is facing one of its most heartbreaking and overwhelming rescues to date. Earlier this month, a tip about inhumane conditions led to the removal of 72 cats and three dogs from two homes deemed “biohazards” by authorities.
The scenes inside were shocking: urine-soaked floors, overflowing litter boxes, flea infestations, and dangerously high ammonia levels. Many of the cats were in critical condition—some suffering severe eye infections or even total blindness. Two cats required enucleation surgery, the removal of one or both eyes, due to the extent of their suffering.
In total, 44 cats were seized from one home on May 15, and just days later, 28 cats and three dogs were removed from a second property. Both homes were declared uninhabitable for people and pets alike.
While the animals from the second location were in better health, most still require urgent medical treatment before they can be placed in safe, loving homes.
ACAPL Over Capacity
Every one of these animals is now under the care of ACAPL, which is already at capacity and in desperate need of help. The shelter does not euthanize for space, meaning every adoption, foster home, and donation makes an immediate difference.
“The animals pour in daily and we make room for them no matter what we have to do,” ACAPL said.
You can help the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League during this crisis by adopting, fostering, donating, or volunteering. Adoption specials run through June 1, with cats just $35 and dogs $70 (including spay/neuter, microchip, and vaccines). If you can’t adopt, fostering provides critical space and care for animals in need. Donations—whether monetary or from ACAPL’s Amazon and Chewy wish lists—go directly toward medical care and supplies. And if you can give your time, volunteers are always needed to support daily shelter operations. Every action makes a difference for these 75 rescued animals.
Beyond This Case: Speak Up for Stronger Animal Protections
Cases like this are not rare—they are symptoms of a bigger problem. Ohio’s laws don’t go far enough to prevent animal cruelty, and shelters across the state are stretched thin. You can help ensure no animal endures suffering like this again by taking action on statewide animal welfare legislation.
Here are urgent state Action Alerts you can support today:
Your voice matters. Every email, phone call, and petition signed helps create a safer future for animals in Ohio.
