UPDATED: 6:20 p.m., Wednesday:
The Bucks County SPCA has taken custody of more than 100 farm animals from Narrow Way Farm in Wrightstown Township after conducting an animal cruelty investigation, officials told NewtownPANow.com.
The action came after numerous complaints about the well-being of the animals, including photos and videos showcasing their poor condition, the Bucks County SPCA said in a news release.
The reports on welfare of the animals led to an investigation by Bucks County SPCA Police.
On Tuesday, with support from Newtown Township police, a warrant was served at the farm on Worthington Mill Road on Mud Road. Officers and detectives remained on the scene Wednesday.
According to the SPCA, the farm’s owner, Abigail O’Keefe, has left the country and there were no indications of her return.
Negotiations with O’Keefe enabled the surrender of the animals, allowing the county SPCA to proceed with medical treatments and preparations for rehoming.
At the farm, known for its “sip and snuggle” events with baby goats, authorities found deplorable conditions, officials said.
“Bucks County SPCA staff found animals living in filthy conditions, dead animals, and reports from caretakers of young animals suddenly dying,” officials said.
Immediate medical attention was provided to the sickest animals at Bucks County SPCA’s Quakertown Shelter.
By Wednesday morning, all rescued animals had been examined.
Official said they uncovered multiple health issues, including a contagious condition known as foot scald and respiratory symptoms among several goats.
A state veterinarian also noted a heavy parasite load in multiple sheep and goats as a potential cause of death. Some animals appeared to have a poor diet, officials said.
An attempt by this news organization to contact O’Keefe was unsuccessful.
According to county records, O’Keefe has owned the 36-acre farm since 2017.
An animal welfare representative departing from the scene described the conditions as among the worst she had seen.
A reporter spotted a volunteer bringing animals supplies to the farm to assist SPCA officials.
Narrow Way Farm once sold meat, goat milk, cheese, soaps, plants, and other items.
The Bucks County SPCA has appealed to the public for help.
The nonprofit is now seeking experienced individuals and groups within Pennsylvania to adopt some of the rescued animals. Details on how to adopt are available on the organization’s website through their rescue assistance webform.
SPCA official said the community can contribute to the Animal Relief Fund to support the ongoing care of the animals.
Anyone with further information about this case or other instances of cruelty and neglect in Bucks County is encouraged to report to the SPCA at 844-SPCA-Tip (844-772-2847) or via email at reportcruelty@buckscountyspca.org.
Original Story:
Newtown Township police and the Bucks County SPCA Police were at a farm in Wrightstown Township following reports of concern for animals.
Police activity was noticed at Narrow Way Farm on Worthington Mill Road by Mud Road on Tuesday and continuing into Wednesday.
An SPCA spokesperson confirmed that an investigation was underway and stated that more information will be released later.
John Hearn, chief of the Newtown Township Police Department, which patrols Wrightstown Township, reported that officers were called to the 36-acre property to conduct welfare checks on the animals.
“As a result of volunteer personnel on location and the overall condition of animals, the Bucks County SPCA also arrived on location and took primary lead on animal investigation and are in the process of evaluating conditions and taking any corrective measures,” Hearn said.
SPCA police and Newtown Township detectives were present when a NewtownPANow.com reporter visited the scene on Wednesday morning.
Initial reports indicated that animals had been left abandoned at the farm, with some believed to be in poor health.
An animal welfare representative departing from the scene described the conditions as among the worst she had seen.
Another volunteer was bringing animals supplies to the farm to assist SPCA officials.
Narrow Way Farm once sold meat, goat milk, cheese, soaps, plants, and other items.
Attempts to contact the listed owner of the farm were unsuccessful as of Wednesday.
No charges had been filed by police at the time of publication.
