Cat hoarder charged in Georgia

GEORGIA -- After an anonymous phone call, Upson County Animal Control responded to a severe case of animal hoarding and neglect.

In the morning hours of June 28, Animal Control Manager Smart Web visited the residence of Ricky McKinley and Donna Lynn Tankersly on Birdsong Road to investigate an animal cruelty complaint.

A veterinarian and his assistant were on the scene as witnesses in part, but also to examine and record the health and physical condition of the animals. Upson County Sheriff's Deputy Marie McDaniel and Sergeant David Walker were present and bore witness as well.

“We didn't know what we were going to see,” said Web. “All we knew was that these animals were not being taken care of and that something had to be done.”

Web says that Tankersly called the shelter after finding out she had been reported. She warned officers not to come to her house and said that she wasn't giving her animals up. Only after meeting her, did they see just how serious she was.

 According to Web, Tankersly's demeanor upon their arrival was less than welcoming.

“She told me that I wasn't taking those animals,” said Web, “and that they were hers!”

Web stated that she continued to act defensive until Sgt. Walker stepped in to explain the situation more thoroughly, and after a moment, she agreed to let the small group come into the house to see the place they were sharing with these animals.

“When Miss Tankersly opened the door, we were greeted by a strong stench,” said Web. “It seemed to be an ammonia smell like animal urine.”

After entering the double-wide trailer, it immediately became apparent to Web that there were too many cats and not enough space, and that their living conditions were highly unsanitary and unhealthy.

There were, not only upwards of 30 cats and kittens living there, but three medium breed dogs as well.

Once inside, Web and the others could see fresh and dried animal feces all over the floor of the first room and in the corners of others, along with contaminated cat food and litter. It was reported that a toilet with the lid lifted was the only source of water for the animals.

One kitten was even found to have an eye infection that had gone untreated for some time.

This isn't the first time Tankersly had been warned about the number of animals in the house. McKinley says they've argued about this countless times over the past few years.

The couple has been together for ten years and not until the last five have there been issues about the pets she keeps.

“We started out with one cat and one dog,” said McKinley. ”and that was fine, but she doesn't see it the same way. She wants to take in every cat that comes up.”

“I'm even ashamed for people to see the place.” said McKinley. “There's just too many to keep up with. It's ridiculous.”

Tankersly was transported to the Upson County Sheriff's Office and charged with cruelty to animals.
Over 20 cats were captured from the residence, and several traps were set to catch the remainder.

Tankersly could not be reached for comment.

(Thomaston Times - July 7, 2006)