Three dogs and 83 cats are now under the care of Oregon Humane after being rescued from a home near Medford where they were living in unsanitary conditions without adequate care.
The case began as an investigation into elder abuse but quickly expanded when Central Point Police visited the home and discovered dozens of cats living in unsafe and unsanitary conditions. Rescuing, transporting, and caring for this many animals would be an enormous operation, so Central Point Police reached out to Oregon Humane for help. Thanks to donor support, we were able to say yes and mobilize our team to help bring these animals to safety.
Oregon Humane’s rescue team included four highly skilled members of our Admissions Department who have experience rescuing animals in a variety of challenging environments. During this particular operation, our rescue team needed to wear full PPE and respirators while working for hours in temperatures exceeding 90 degrees.
As the team searched the property, several dogs were discovered at the home and picked up by Jackson County Animal Services.
One by one, the cats were carefully loaded into our specially equipped, climate-controlled Second Chance transport vehicles. Although it appeared the team had found all the cats in the home, they knew from experience that more animals could be hiding in unreachable places. A local group assisted by setting up and monitoring humane traps, until three additional cats were found the next day and taken to Jackson County Animal Services.
“The citizens of Central Point are fortunate to have organizations such as Oregon Humane willing to answer the call when communities face extraordinary circumstances. Your dedication to animal welfare and your commitment to supporting local law enforcement agencies across Oregon serve as a model of public service and compassion.”
Taneea Browning, Mayor, City of Central Point
After making the five-hour drive back to Portland, our Operations team worked late into the night to get 80+ cats settled into the shelter. Forensic veterinary exams were also conducted by our team, and the findings will be provided to the Jackson County District Attorney’s Office.
“We were incredibly impressed by the professionalism and compassion shown by the Oregon Humane team. Cases involving such a large number of animals require significant expertise, personnel, and resources. Having a trusted partner capable of responding at that scale was invaluable. It was inspiring to see everyone come together with a shared commitment to the animals’ welfare, and we are confident the cats are now in excellent hands.”
Josh Abbott, Lieutenant, Central Point Police Department
Now, the next phase of work begins and we need your help.
This case requires massive amounts of resources including medications, food, supplies, and staff time.
“Thanks to our donors, Oregon Humane is fortunate to have resources like Humane Law Enforcement and our Animal Crimes Forensic Center—the only one of its kind on the West Coast—as well as a fleet of custom transport vehicles and highly skilled staff to rescue large groups of animals in crisis.”
Dr. Steven Kochis, Oregon Humane Chief Medical Officer and co-Interim CEO
These animals are not currently available for adoption as they are part of an active investigation.
How You Can Help Today
Thanks to your support, Oregon Humane is able to say “yes” when calls for help arrive.
Your gift ensures our teams have the resources necessary to act at a moment’s notice, providing life-saving care to those who need us most. Will you donate now to help rescue and provide second chances for animals?
