Fur, Feathers and Felonies

From a massive dog hoarding investigation to one of the largest felony cockfighting cases in Maryland, the Harford County Sheriff's Office Animal Control Unit handles cases that go far beyond a lost dog wandering at large. On this episode of Into the Sheriff's Spotlight, Sheriff Gahler and Colonel Davis sit down with Animal Control Supervisor Kevin Cajigas and Shalimar Oliver of Humane World for Animals to go behind the scenes of some of their most significant cases. The conversation takes a deep dive into a recent dog hoarding case involving more than 111 dogs in Havre de Grace, the largest of its kind ACO Cajigas has encountered in his career. They discuss the initial call, the challenges that followed, the resources required to rescue the animals, and what happens after they're removed. They also explore the often-overlooked connection between animal hoarding and mental health, and why resolving these cases means addressing the needs of the people involved, not just rescuing the animals. It's a look at the complex work of a small but mighty team, the partnerships that make it possible, and the cases that demonstrate just how much goes into protecting animals and the community.

A special thanks to Humane World for Animals for joining us and sharing their expertise.

Photos courtesy of Humane World for Animals.