BOISE, Idaho — A judge grant ownership of 55 dogs and three cats to the Idaho Humane Society (IHS) after they were found in a Mountain Home residence on December 26, 2019. The dogs were toy breed Papillions. All of the animals were removed from unsanitary and overcrowded conditions.
Since then, the animals have been provided care and shelter in the custody of IHS, pending the resolution of legal proceedings by the Mountain Home Prosecutor's Office against the owner, Kathryn Schweikert. The current number of dogs is 69, because several of the dogs were pregnant and have since given birth at the IHS shelter.
Related: Idaho Humane Society helps rescue dogs and cats from Mountain Home house
Last Friday, Magistrate Judge Theodore Fleming issued an order of forfeiture awarding ownership of the dogs to IHS. Schweikert must provide for the cost of care until criminal charges in the case are judged upon. The Idaho Humane Society has spent thousands of dollars caring for the animals including the provision of exams, vaccinations, deworming, bloodwork, emergency medical care and boarding. This does not include the additional cost of needed medical care that will begin to take place starting March 23, which includes dentistry, spays and neuters, tumor removals and other procedures.
The criminal case against Schweikert is still pending in court. IHS will begin rehoming the animals through their adoption portal as their surgeries are complete. Prospective adopters and others are currently prohibited from visiting any IHS campus due to COVID-19 related precautions. Adoptions are currently being provided by application and appointments only.
Related: Idaho Humane Society seeking donations after animal hoarding case
The Idaho Humane Society maintains a toll-free animal cruelty and neglect hot line to receive reports of suspected animal cruelty, neglect, or animal fighting, from citizens throughout the region, the number is 1-866-430-9432.
The Idaho Humane Society works to protect all animals from abuse. We also believe that because domestic animals are a product of human intervention, we have a very special obligation to them in regard to humane treatment and responsible stewardship. Donations can be made to aid in this effort: https://idahohumanesociety.org/donate/donate-now/
