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Centre County honors PAWS after rescue of 43 dogs; commissioners approve $1,000 donation
Summary
The board recognized PAWS and Lisa Baer for rescuing 43 dogs from a hoarding incident, heard details about forensic veterinary exams used to document conditions, and approved a $1,000 contingency donation to help shelter costs.
The Centre County Board of Commissioners recognized PAWS and its volunteers on March 27 for responding to a hoarding incident that brought 43 dogs into their care.
Chair remarks credited the county’s humane officer program and sheriff’s deputies for partnering with PAWS. Lisa Baer, representing PAWS, described the intake and the use of forensic veterinary exams to document animal condition and assist potential criminal cases. "Two Fridays ago, we brought in 6 dogs... and the following Friday brought us 37 more — 43 in total in about a week," Baer said, describing immediate medical needs and the effort to place animals in foster homes.
Baer outlined primary expenses: spay/neuter, microchipping, medical care, and staff and volunteer overtime. She said an outside clinic (Allegheny Spay and Neuter Clinic) opened two days to complete surgeries for medically cleared animals.
Commissioners praised PAWS’ rapid response and the creation of the humane society police officer position that supports such operations. The board said it would approve a $1,000 contingency donation to support shelter costs and directed staff to prepare the paperwork.
No enforcement action was announced at the meeting; deputies are continuing follow-up investigations, and PAWS noted forensic exams support subsequent criminal-case work.
The board’s recognition highlighted interagency cooperation among PAWS, the sheriff’s office, and county departments in responding to the incident.
