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The Dutchess County SPCA in Hyde Park is investigating the abandonment of 11 kittens found in a covered tub in their parking lot on Monday (December 9). The kittens, ranging from eight weeks to one year old, were discovered by a staff member before they could freeze in the low 30s temperatures. The SPCA is reviewing camera footage to identify the person responsible for leaving the kittens, which is considered a misdemeanor in New York state.
According to Lynn Meloccaro, the executive director of the Dutchess County SPCA, the kittens were likely from unwanted litters, as none of the older cats showed signs of having given birth. Fortunately, the kittens are in good health, indicating they were previously cared for in a home. They are currently receiving vaccinations and will be spayed or neutered before being available for adoption by the weekend or early next week.
The SPCA emphasizes that abandoning animals is unnecessary, as they do not charge a surrender fee and encourage people to contact them for assistance. Meloccaro stated to the Times Union, "If that person had called, of course, we would have taken those kittens." The shelter currently cares for 97 cats and offers a low-cost spay-neuter clinic to help prevent unwanted litters.
For those considering surrendering pets, the SPCA advises calling (845) 452-7722, extension 403, to schedule an appointment.