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The Columbia-Greene Humane Society is currently caring for nearly 100 animals seized from a property in Athens on Tuesday (December 9). The Greene County Sheriff's Office, along with other organizations, removed 18 Belgian Malinois dogs, 12 goats, six cows, two cats, and numerous fowl from the Lime Kiln Road property. The animals were found living in deplorable conditions, prompting the arrest of property owner George Chrisomalis on charges of animal cruelty.
According to CBS6 Albany, the animals were discovered in an isolated area and were suffering from neglect. Humane Society President Ron Perez described the situation as "horrible," noting that many of the animals were underweight and lacked proper shelter. "We had cows that were underweight, goats that were underweight, some of them had injuries," Perez said. "The living conditions were absolutely deplorable."
The News10 report highlighted that the Mohawk-Hudson Humane Society and the New York State Humane Association assisted in the rescue operation. Chrisomalis, who had no prior criminal record, is scheduled to appear in Athens Town Court at a later date. Additional charges are expected to follow, addressing the mistreatment of the other animals.
The Columbia-Greene Humane Society is now seeking foster homes for the rescued dogs. Interested individuals can contact CGHS/SPCA Vice President Jessica Farkas for more information. The humane society is working to comply with new state regulations that will enhance the safety of animal shelters, set to take effect on December 15.