DEEP RIVER, Conn — A Deep River home kennel was shut down, and 55 animals were seized after they were found to be living in deplorable conditions, police said. The owner was charged with animal abuse.
The Tri-Town Regional Animal Control began investigating a home on Bushy Hill Road in Deep River in April 2023 after receiving a complaint of barking dogs. The female homeowner, identified as Jean Jameson, told animal control officials that she bred dogs at the home and held a kennel license.
State police said the animal control officers noticed that some dogs in the yard appeared to be alert and responsive but had abnormally oil coats. This raised concerns about possible maltreatment of the animals.
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Officials said the homeowner maintained three kennel licenses, which allowed her to have up to 30 adult dogs.
According to state police, animal control officers attempted multiple times between September 2023 and January 2024 to check the kennel. However, the homeowner repeatedly refused to allow them to enter and would not otherwise schedule a time for a kennel check.
On Jan. 3, a veterinary hospital reported a dog from the same residence on Bushy Hill Road arrived with severe medical conditions. The dog had to be euthanized, police said.
A week later, police inspected the kennel and found unsanitary conditions like dirt, trash, urine, and fecal matter. They also found no adequate food or water for the dogs, some of which had matted, unclean fur. Investigators determined the house was unsuitable for housing animals.
On Jan. 25, police and local and state officials seized 43 dogs, 3 hens, and 1 rooster from inside the home. An additional 8 hens from the property were also taken.
All the animals seized were medically evaluated and have been taken to various animal control facilities across the state for continuing care.
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Jameson was charged with 55 counts of cruelty to animals. She is set to appear in court on Feb. 8.
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