Wednesday, June 10, 2009

44 cats seized from Christiansburg home, owners facing animal cruelty charges



By Ashley Roberts WSLS10


An anonymous call about neglected cats in Christiansburg leads to the rescue of more than 40 animals.

The cats were seized from a home at Cheadle’s Trailer Park at 175 East Street in Christiansburg about two weeks ago.

County Spokeswoman Ruth Richey tells WSLS the cats were in poor condition, some had upper respiratory illnesses and there was no food in the home. Richey says all, but three of the cats, needed medical care.

She says charges are pending against Virginia Atkinson and her daughter, Michelle Atkinson. They face 30 charges *each* including animal cruelty, not providing food, water and vet care to the cats and not getting their rabies vaccinations.

Since the county’s animal shelter only takes dogs at this time, the cats are being cared for byAnimal Hope Alliance and Angels of Assisi..." More

Public domain photo