Orange Cove Investigation Filing

On Friday, July 6, 2018, 6 counts of animal cruelty were filed against Mary Kay Nelson, founder of Noah’s Friends Animal Sanctuary, a “no-kill” rescue.In August 2016, CCSPCA Humane Officers confiscated 145 animals (142 dogs and 3 cats) from a Fresno County “no-kill” rescue organization, Noah’s Friends Animal Sanctuary. The CCSPCA served a search warrant and found dogs in Orange Cove suffering from a variety of medical conditions and lack of basic care. Many were extremely emaciated and suffering from parasites, as well as diseases. The living conditions were horrific with many of the dogs living inside and outside, confined in small crates, covered in feces and urine, and without food or water.The animals were removed and transferred to the CCSPCA where they were thoroughly examined and received immediate medical care by the compassionate veterinarians and medical staff. 83% of the dogs tested positive for anaplasma and ehrlichia, tick borne diseases, which afflict humans and other animals. 65% of the dogs tested positive for internal parasites, consisting of roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, tapeworms, and coccidia.Most of the dogs we rescued were successfully treated and have all been adopted or sent with one of our Pet Placement Organizations. Only a very few had to be euthanized due to the severity of the untreated conditions.Because of the widely recognized link between animal cruelty and domestic violence/abuse, we appreciate the District Attorney’s office recognizing the importance of prosecuting animal cruelty cases.CCSPCA Humane Officers hold the same powers of Peace Officers in the state of California when investigating animal cruelty. The CCSPCA is a non-profit corporation that relies on donations for its programs and services, including animal cruelty investigations. To report animal cruelty, call (559) 233-7722 or visit Central California SPCA.