Overview
- St. Johns deputies found 23 dogs abandoned near U.S. 1 and County Road 204 on May 4, and three of those animals later died while 20 were taken to veterinary hospitals.
- Investigators tracked the dogs to a Palm Coast home where officers removed 51 more animals living in severe hoarding conditions and charged homeowner Carolyn Loveman in May.
- Flagler County authorities arrested Austin Moore and Anthony Dunham this week and charged each with three counts of aggravated animal cruelty and 20 counts of animal neglect for allegedly transporting and dumping 23 dogs.
- Veterinarians documented widespread health problems including emaciation, fleas, parasites, overgrown nails and untreated injuries, and the rescued dogs are now receiving medical care and behavioral rehabilitation.
- Local rescues such as S.M.A.R.T. of Flagler County are coordinating foster placements and adoptions, and officials say many of the dogs should be available for permanent homes after treatment.