WASHINGTON -- Police arrested a man Thursday afternoon for animal cruelty after they found 73 cats and a dog inside his parked camper.
Officers received a tip that a man parked outside of the Auburn Regional Medical Center was hoarding animals.
When they found the camper, they were shocked to discover 74 animals inside.
The owner of the camper told police he's from out of town and staying in his camper while his girlfriend is in the hospital.
He said he didn't want to leave the animals at home, according to Cameron Satterfield of the Regional Animal Services of King County.
The animals were taken to an empty fire station to be evaluated.
"They were all in pretty good shape," Satterfield said. "They were hungry and thirsty, but otherwise they were in pretty good shape."
The man, who hasn't been identified, was arrested on suspicion of second degree animal cruelty and released at the scene. He gave police permission to take the animals for the night, but said he wants them back.
Animal Services will do a more thorough exam of the cats on Friday.
(KVAL - Jan 27, 2012)