Police have removed 61 dogs and cats from a home in Vélez-Málaga after neighbours reported persistent barking and meowing, along with a strong smell from the property. The animals were found in poor conditions, according to the investigation described in a report by Euro Weekly News.
Officers from the Policía Nacional’s local judicial investigation unit searched the house and found 29 dogs and 32 cats in different rooms. Police allege the woman living there had taken in stray, abandoned and lost animals but failed to provide adequate food, hygiene or veterinary care.
The 53-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of an ongoing offence of animal abuse. The allegations have not been established in court; the investigation will examine the circumstances and any criminal responsibility. Police also reported that some animals had been shut inside kitchen furniture in darkness.
Many of the animals were described as ill or malnourished. The report said they arrived at shelters with problems including bloody diarrhoea, hair loss and eye conditions, and that some required urgent veterinary treatment. Some dogs were severely dehydrated and needed assisted feeding or intensive care.
Despite treatment, some animals died, according to the report. It also said a parvovirus outbreak affected other animals, while one rescued cat had reportedly lost its sight. The full number of deaths and the animals’ current medical status were not specified.
Survivors are being looked after by shelters and animal-protection centres across Málaga province. Police have appealed for help finding them homes, with particular attention to cats, which the report said are adopted less often than dogs.
The report gives 952 97 16 63 for adoption enquiries and says adoption is free. Prospective adopters can use the number to ask about an animal’s health, recovery and suitability. Vélez-Málaga Town Hall covered veterinary costs linked to emergency treatment of the cats, while animal-protection centres assisted with rescue and care.
The case began with complaints from residents and will now proceed through the judicial process. No timetable for further steps was provided.