Dozens of animals seized from Livingston County home, owner charged with animal cruelty

LEICESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Authorities seized dozens of farm animals and household pets from a home in Livingston County Wednesday afternoon. Their owner now faces animal cruelty charges.

News10NBC was there as the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office and the Humane Society of Greater Rochester conducted their investigation. Although the number of animals that were rescued Wednesday hasn’t been released yet, officials say so far the number is in the dozens.

After numerous complaints from neighbors, the owner of Horse Around Farms, located on Perry Road in Leicester, was served with a warrant for the seizure and removal of her animals from the property. The Humane Society of Greater Rochester’s Reno DiDomenico said this is not the first time the owner has been accused of animal cruelty.

"What we’re seeing right now is some signs of neglect. Lack of water, lack of food, and we have to do a total investigation to determine whether or not that was actually taking place," DiDomenico said.

The property spreads out over many acres and houses both farm animals and pets.

"She has some chickens, she has some goats. I believe there is a cow. She has some dogs, cats and that’s pretty much what I have seen so far," DiDomenico said.

Brittany Ellis lives next door and says animals constantly cross over into her property.

"My children are 6, and 9 years old. They have been chased multiple times you know by the chickens. One was almost bit. Her aunt picked her up. Her aunt’s leg was nipped," Ellis said.

Ken Mock lives two doors down, and is happy the animals are being rescued.

"I’ve been dealing with this for the last two years. As long as these animals get out of here, and get the care that they need, that’s what they really need. She don’t take care of them. If you’re gonna have animals you got to take care of them," Mock said.

DiDomenico says the most neglected animals will be treated and cared for at Lollypop Farm.

"There will be some animals probably staying on the property, but we will be monitoring them, and checking them," DiDomenico said.

The owner was arrested and given an appearance ticket. Remember if you witness any animal cruelty or neglect you’re urged to call the Animal Cruelty Hotline at Lollypop Farm. That number is 585-223-6500.