Two dogs seized after ongoing investigation in Columbus County

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — The Columbus County Animal Control seized two dogs today just off Chaunceytown Road in Lake Waccamaw as a part of an ongoing investigation.

Animal Control Manager Joey Prince said the dogs were kept outside with no food or water, and one dog had no shelter. He also said neither dog had its required rabies tag.

Prince said the investigation began a short while ago when people driving by the house reported dogs were being kept in deplorable conditions. Other witnesses in the area also reported the same conditions.

As required, Animal Control tried to contact the owner of the animals several times, but the owner refused to discuss it or to make the required improvements for the dogs.

“Minimum standards of care for an animal, by state and county statutes require adequate feed, adequate water, a rabies vaccination and a dog house,” Prince said. “The owner of these dogs appears to have failed to provide the minimum standards of care required for these animals.”

Prince said by policy, Columbus County Animals Control prefers to help county residents, rather than press charges. Any resident who is having difficultly in properly caring for their animal may turn the animal into Animal Control. However, those who refuse facilitation in the care of their animals and refuse to correct areas of concern on their own do face criminal charges.

Prince said charges are still pending in this case.

Prince said he was proud of the level of protection for county animals his agency has been able to achieve since he took control of the shelter. The animals will receive a health assessment at a local vet tomorrow via a generous donation from an anonymous benefactor with knowledge of the situation.