MSPCA-Angell Law Enforcement Removes 13 Animals from Property in Western Massachusetts

Horses, Mules, a Donkey and More Allegedly Living in Unsanitary Conditions

BOSTON, June 25, 2026 – The MSPCA-Angell Law Enforcement team removed 13 animals of various species from a Western Massachusetts property where they were allegedly living in unsanitary conditions, the organization announced today.

A search warrant was executed on June 24 to seize the animals, which included seven horses, two mules, a donkey, two geese, and a cockatoo.

“When our team arrived, some of the animals were standing in over a foot of manure,” MSPCA-Angell Vice President of Animal Protection, Mike Keiley detailed. “Several are very underweight and have overgrown hooves, making it difficult for them to walk.”

“Prior to issuing the warrant, we’d made multiple attempts to work with the owner and improve conditions. When those efforts were unsuccessful, we needed to step in out of concern for the animals’ wellbeing.”

The animals were brought to the MSPCA-Angell at Nevins Farm where they will receive care while the case make its way through the court system.

“We’re relieved these animals are now safe, but looking after additional farm animals—particularly those of this size—is a big undertaking on top of the farm animals already in our care. We’re calling on adopters to come out and help ease the pressure on our animal care staff and resources.”

Farm Animal Adopters Needed!

According to Keiley, most of the farm animals currently in the MSPCA-Angell’s care came from Law Enforcement activity and have since been surrendered, making them available for adoption.

“It’s important that we stay one step ahead when it comes to having the space and resources ready for the next animal who needs us, especially because we’re the only shelter system in the region able to take in large numbers of farm animals,” said Keiley. “Now that we can start finding homes for the animals we’ve gained custody of, we’re focused on doing so and ensuring we’re prepared when the next call comes in.”

“We’re urgently seeking adopters of roosters because we have 35 in our care, which is three times our normal capacity for housing them,” Keiley added. “Historically, roosters have been difficult to place, but we’ll be waiving their adoption fees on June 27 and 28 in hopes of connecting with the special adopters who can give them a home.”

Animals available for adoption can be viewed on the MSPCA-Angell’s website. Those who are interested in adopting a farm animal are encouraged to submit an inquiry form at mspca.org/farmadopt.

“It’s already been an incredibly busy year, with our team responding to one case after another. While our team is small but mighty, we rely on the support of the community to help us carry out this work and keep animals across Massachusetts safe.”

Issues of concern can be reported to MSPCA-Angell Law Enforcement by phone at (617) 522-6008 or (800) 628-5808, or online at mspca.org/tip.

Those who would like to donate to help support MSPCA-Angell Law Enforcement are asked to give at mspca.org/justice.

All individuals are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.