The county's Animal Control Hoarding Task force received a complaint from someone who expressed concern about their Spring Hill neighbor owning too many animals.
"She loves animals and she got overwhelmed," said Danielle Downes, a county animal control officer.
Downes says the animals all appeared to be in good shape and there were no signs of neglect.
The owner, Julia Mathis, 73, doesn't think the animals needed to be taken.
Mathis said she owns a little over an acre of land. She took in strays and animals that could no longer be cared for.
"They wasn't hurt, they wasn't hungry," she said, "I fed them good."
Mathis was able to keep nine of her dogs as well as a pig, goats and a horse.
Downes says they don't take livestock, however, doesn't plan to file a report on those animals because they appear in good health.
"I'm a good person," said Mathis, "I try to help anybody or any animal, you know, I take them in."
Officers cited Mathis for not having all the animals properly vaccinated.
Her neighbor Ronna Kistler is relieved to see the animals gone.
"I'm sure she meant no malice," she said, "but still, it is what it is and something had to be done and someone spoke for the animals."
“Somebody needed to speak for the animals," said Kistler. "The lady, she's older -- I’m sure with all my heart it was with love, but she just couldn't keep up and there was just too many."
Another neighbor said the noise, at all hours, was an issue.
The animals are now up for adoption at the Pasco Co. Animal shelter. If you are interested in adopting one of the dogs or cats, please call 352-521-5194.
Mathis' situation is becoming more and more common. People with big hearts take in animals and don't know when to stop. The animals are generally healthy and friendly, but the owner is run ragged taking care of them.
As a result, Pasco County has launched a Hoarding Task Force. More than 500 animals have been surrendered to them in just the last year alone.
(ABC Action News - Nov 3, 2016)
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