by Howard County Police
Howard County Animal Control officers removed more than 100 animals from the Animal Welfare Society of Howard County (AWS), a non-profit organization in Columbia, after receiving a tip about poor conditions inside the facility.
A concerned citizen contacted Animal Control May 9 and reported that there was overcrowding, foul odor and a lack of cleanliness at AWS, located in the 8500 block of Davis Road. Animal Control officers acted on the complaint today, visited the facility and found the animals in unacceptable conditions. They entered AWS with a search and seizure warrant and found cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs and birds. Many appeared to be in poor health.
The animals were moved to the county’s Animal Control facility to receive veterinary evaluations and care. The total number of animals has not yet been confirmed. Once the animals have been evaluated, Animal Control will determine which ones are healthy enough to be adopted.
Donations are being accepted to assist with the care of the animals, including monetary contributions, food and bedding. They can be dropped off at the county’s Animal Control facility at 8576 Davis Road in Columbia.