Early Examinations Show Many Animals Underweight, Living with Conditions that Require Medical Treatment
BOSTON, Jan. 9, 2026 – 315 animals of various species, including goats, cows, sheep, pigs, a pony, farm birds (chickens, geese, ducks, turkeys, and peafowl), domestic birds (cockatiels, parrots, parakeets, doves, and pigeons), rabbits, and wildlife that are illegal to keep as pets are recovering in the care of the MSPCA-Angell after being removed from a Hadley property on January 7.
“Removing the animals was a huge operation that took hours,” explained MSPCA-Angell Law Enforcement Director, Chris Schindler. “It took dozens of our own staff in Law Enforcement and several other departments, as well as a lot of help from Hadley Police.”
Following their removal, the animals were brought to MSPCA-Angell facilities where they have been undergoing initial examinations to determine their medical needs and to score their body condition to address their nutrition needs.
“We know that a lot of the animals are very underweight and displaying signs consistent with being housed outdoors in cold weather without adequate access to food, water, and shelter,” Schindler detailed.
“Regardless of the problems they have, we’re going to make sure that all of the animals get whatever treatment they need, which is going to take a lot of resources considering the sheer number, which is more animals than smaller rescue organizations take in during an entire year.”
The MSPCA-Angell is working with MassWildlife and Massachusetts Environmental Police on treatment and next steps for the wildlife.
“This kind of case requires collaboration between many different agencies,” Schindler added. “We’re extremely grateful for the close working relationships we have with local law enforcement and state agencies that allow us to ensure that we’re able to help all animals throughout Massachusetts, regardless of species.”
Those in need of assistance caring for their farm animals in Hampshire and Franklin counties are asked to contact the Northwestern District Animal Protection Task Force or the MSPCA-Angell Equine Relief Program.
There are no updates on the investigation. The MSPCA-Angell will release updates as they become available.
All individuals are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
