Deputies in Florida rescued dozens of cats Monday from a Stuart home in what the sheriff called the worst animal hoarding case he has seen in Martin County. Authorities went to the house on Southwest Meadowlark Circle after investigating reports that a postal worker had been collecting feral cats along her mail route. Sheriff John Budensiek identified the homeowner as 77-year-old Gail Giustino, who he believes was gathering strays rather than stealing pets.
Deputies got a search warrant after she allegedly refused to let animal control inside over the past week, and they found no working air conditioning, little ventilation, and up to a foot of animal feces on the floor in the home. The smell was so bad that a hazardous materials team had to ventilate the house first. Officials believe there could be 70 to 80 animals or more, including several dogs. Giustino faces two misdemeanor charges, filed mainly to remove the animals and get her help through mental health court.
Source: WPTV
