The Pennsylvania SPCA said a tip call led officials to Celtic Farms and Kennels Inc. in Penn Township in early May. According to court records, the kennel's owner, Paul Ober, has been charged with five counts of animal cruelty as a summary offense.
The PSPCA executed a search warrant and found 60 dogs. Forensic veterinarians evaluated the animals and five dogs were removed because of lack of care, said officials.
One dog had to be euthanized because of serious health issues, added Sarah Eremus, spokeswoman for PSPCA.
"There's always a lot of dogs up there and I would be surprised if they're not over the limit on the amount of dogs they're actually supposed to have," said Paula Grose, who lives down the street from the kennel.
Many neighbors in the area told 69 News they were not surprised by the charges that were filed against Ober because they've had a mountain of complaints over the years.
"Mostly noise and dogs barking all the time," said William Spatz.
According to officials, Ober surrendered the dogs that were taken. They have since been sent to a breed rescue.
69 News tried reaching out to Ober for comment, but we were told he was not available.
Now, some neighbors said they hope the charges serve as a wake-up call.
"I just want to see them abide by the laws and on the number of dogs and how they treat them and that the dogs are treated fairly," said Grose.
The PSPCA would not release any other information because the case is still under investigation.
Ober has been fined and a court date has not yet been set.
(WFMZ Allentown - May 27, 2014)
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