TOMS RIVER – Ocean County’s two animal shelters have temporarily suspended accepting pet donations after receiving an outpouring of supplies for about 180 cats and dogs seized from a Brick home that prosecutors have alleged was crowded and filthy.
The two shelters, which are run by the Ocean County Health Department, have housed the pets since they were seized earlier this month from the house, where the animals were allegedly kept encrusted in their own feces, according to the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office.
The animals were so dirty, that their breed and sex was not immediately apparent to rescuers, an assistant prosecutor said in court last week.
In total,135 dogs, 45 cats and two dead puppies were taken from the home, according to the Prosecutor’s Office.
After the animals’ story hit local and national news media, donations poured into the shelters, according to county officials. The health department’s website announced the temporary suspension of accepting donations and thanked donors for their support.
County officials said they are preparing the animals to be adopted to new homes.
The pets’ original owners — Aimee Lonczak, 49, and Michele Nycz, 58 — have been charged with animal cruelty and child endangerment, because Lonczak’s 16-year-old daughter was living in the house with the animals.
What will happen to the animals?:180 dogs and cats seized from Brick home being readied for adoption
Amanda Oglesby is an Ocean County native who covers Brick, Barnegat and Lacey townships as well as the environment. She has worked for the Press for more than a decade. Reach her at @OglesbyAPP, aoglesby@gannettnj.com or 732-557-5701.
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