EMINENCE, Ky (WDRB) -- A Henry County woman accused of letting dogs and cats sit in their own feces and urine tells a judge she's innocent. Animal control officers received a tip last month that 218 dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hermit crabs, and horses were living in deplorable conditions in a mobile home off Highway 55. Henry County Animal Control officers called the scene one of the most disturbing they have ever seen.
"There were quite a few moments that, yes ma'am, I did break down in tears," said Lisa Elswick of Henry County Animal Control back in December.
The animals were taken to local shelters, many arriving sick. "Trying to get her to settle down. Give her the love that she needs," said Jodie Judy, who took one dog home to foster.
But it didn't stop hundreds of people from coming in, asking if they could foster a four-legged friend. "I feel in love with this little black Chihuahua and she went home with me and her name is Maggie Mae," said Pam Martin, another foster mom.
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Three weeks later, the once noisy Henry County Animal Shelter is now quiet and pretty much empty, with most of the animals finding temporary families. But nine cats are still hungry for a new home. "They have progressed immensely. This little guy was so sick and this little guy down here, the doctors said don't be surprised if they don't make it and they did and they're doing great," says Suzanne Schulte, who's looking after the cats.
Donations continue to pile up at the shelter. "We've had people call from California, Indiana. We're still getting donations in the mail," says Animal Control Officer Chad Zimmerman.
In the meantime, the community tries to understand why Kenneth and Terri Smith along with their friend Karen Nellums hoarded so many animals. Police say Kenneth committed suicide shortly after his arrest. On Wednesday, Nellums pleaded not guilty to 10 counts of animal cruelty. Animal Control officers hope Smith will surrender her custody rights next week, making these foster pets a permanent family member.
"Hopefully best case scenario she signs them all over and we can get them into good homes," says Zimmerman.
Smith and Nellums' next court appearance is this Monday. If you are interested in fostering an animal, call the Henry/Trimble County Animal Control Shelter at 502-845-8050.
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