35 Animals Saved From House Of Squalor In New Hampshire

DERRY, N.H. (CBS) -- Nearly three dozen animals were recently rescued from a house of squalor in Derry, New Hampshire.

Police officers executed a search warrant at the McKinley Avenue home shortly after 1:30 p.m. on Oct. 16. The warrant stems from an investigation by police and Derry Animal Control into reports of possible pet neglect.

When they arrived at the home, they found 35 animals including 17 chickens, six cats, six birds, three dogs, a guinea pig, an iguana and a horse. All of the animals were living inside the home except the chickens and horse.

The New Hampshire SPCA says the animals' living conditions were covered in waste and they had limited food. The veterinarian on site said the horse appeared to be suffering from malnutrition.

Police say they spoke with the owner of the animals and learned that she had fallen on hard times and was unable to properly care for her pets.

All of the animals were voluntarily handed over to Stratham SPCA except for the dogs. The dogs were picked up by Derry Animal Control and brought to the dog pound, police say.

No charges have been filed against the owner. Derry police and Derry Public Health and Code Enforcement are handling the investigation.