WEEKI WACHEE, Fla. — A Florida man was arrested on charges of animal abuse after his home was found to be in a state of neglect, housing 30 dogs in dire conditions.
According to the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), 49-year-old Jose Gonzalez-Cruz was charged with felony aggravated animal cruelty and animal cruelty following a search of his home on Margot Road in northwest Hernando County. Deputies discovered 30 bulldog mix dogs, all in terrible health and living in unsanitary conditions.
The investigation revealed that 22 of the dogs had no access to water, with some buckets containing mold and even dead lizards. Nine dogs were described as dangerously underweight, with visible rib and hip bones. Six of the animals had open, bleeding sores, and many were confined to cramped, unsuitable crates lacking proper flooring.
Additionally, eight dogs were found on the front and back porches of the house, which were rotting and had holes in the wood.
Gonzalez-Cruz was arrested and booked on animal cruelty charges. His next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday, May 7.
