The Pennsylvania SPCA’s Animal Law Enforcement team rescued 11 sheep from a property in Pen Argyl, Northampton County on Thursday over concerns for their welfare.

The PSPSCA’s officers were contacted by the Slate Belt Regional Police Department after an officer had responded to a property on Sandt Road housing multiple deceased sheep. When the PSPCA arrived on the scene, they found the reports to be true, discovering 12 dead sheep.

In addition to those that had perished, officers also found 11 live sheep, including 3 lambs. The sheep were in very thin to emaciated conditions and in need of critical care. Three of the animals, two young lambs and a ram, were rushed to emergency veterinary facilities to receive immediate medical intervention.

The remaining eight sheep were brought to the Pennsylvania SPCA’s Main Line Animal Rescue Site in Phoenixville to receive medical care.

An additional lamb was born in the PSPCA’s care overnight. All 12 are under the supervision of a veterinarian and will undergo forensic examinations to determine the level of cruelty charges that may be applicable in this case.

The PSPCA Animal Law Enforcement team believes that there may be justification for felony-level charges in this case under the torture statute. That section of the law states that intentionally or knowingly causing or allowing severe and prolonged pain by depriving an animal of food or sustenance without veterinary care warrants a felony charge.

All animals involved in the case have been signed over to the custody of the PSPCA. The veterinary staff is ensuring they have the medical care and sustenance they desperately need, and it is the intention that once recovered these animals can go to adoptive homes or approved rescue organizations.

“Yesterday was a testament to our organization’s reach and mission,” said Julie Klim, the PSPCA’s chief executive officer. “While our team conducted a major horse rescue operation in Philadelphia, we simultaneously rescued these desperate sheep in Northampton County. Though we’re often associated with cats and dogs, our commitment extends to all animals in need. These rescues exemplify our dedication to giving every animal a chance at a safe and loving life.”

Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact the PSPCA’s Animal Law Enforcement team at 866-601-7722 or cruelty@pspca.org.

Donations to the organization for the care of these animals are being accepted at pspca.org/support-us/donate