Authorities rescued at least 20 mistreated Border Collies from a Palm City, Florida, home described as being covered in feces from wall to wall. The dogs were found in a deplorable state, matted and unrecognizable, according to Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek.
Deputies arrested Paige O’Donnell, 62, a former American Kennel Club breeder and alleged hoarder, after executing a search warrant on her property on Monday. Hazmat suits were required for officers entering the residence due to the unsanitary conditions. Officials also expressed concern about potentially finding deceased animals on the property.
"Quite frankly, some of these dogs are almost unrecognizable as they pull them out," Budensiek stated. "That’s how poorly they are groomed. These are beautiful dogs, naturally, and now with the matted hair and the poor condition they’re in, it’s pretty tough to see."
The home itself was severely deteriorated, with about a foot and a half of drywall missing and furniture destroyed. "Feces over every square inch in the house" was found by deputies, Budensiek confirmed.
O’Donnell had been on the sheriff's office's radar since 2020 following neighbor complaints and allegations of animal mistreatment. At that time, animal control officers determined she was not in violation. Budensiek noted that O'Donnell has no prior criminal record but has a history of alcohol abuse.
According to the sheriff, O'Donnell learned to obstruct investigations, erecting “robust” fencing and engaging in what he called “the legal game” to prevent authorities from accessing her property for animal welfare checks. Last week, she agreed to surrender one dog, which appeared malnourished and not properly cared for, despite having been washed.
O’Donnell is facing charges of felony animal cruelty and misdemeanor improper confinement for each dog found on the property. Additional charges may be filed if dead animals are discovered. "She is a calculated animal abuser, she’s not just some crazy lady who just happened to keep more dogs than she should have," Budensiek said.
This incident follows a similar case last month in Martin County, where 92 cats and dogs were rescued from another alleged hoarder's home in Stuart, Florida. Gail Giustino, 77, was charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty in that case.