Fulton woman accused of animal neglect scheduled for hearing Friday
A 50-year-old Fulton woman is accused of animal neglect for having more than 137 animals in her residence.
According to Fulton police, a warrant was issued to Melissa Baxter’s property of the 600 block of Grand Avenue.
According to officials, neighbors had complained about a strong odor coming from the residence and a health inspector had been notified.
Baxter is scheduled to be in court Friday at 9 a.m. to discuss whether if she can get the animals back or not but, according to police officials, charges are still pending and it is unknown what will happen next.
The animals, which are being kept at the Grabb Animal Shelter in Fulton, have all been checked by veterinarians.
Tina Barnes, supervisor of the Grabb Animal Shelter said some of the animals need medical attention.
“We have had a vet come in. Some of the animals do need some vet treatments which they are being treated for as we speak,” Barnes said.
Barnes and and Chief Steve Meyers, of the Fulton Police Department, are asking those who wish to help to donate the following:
— Recycled paper or pine shaving bedding — no cedar due to being dangerous for certain animals.
— Cockatiel and parakeet food and treats.
— Guinea pig and hamster food and treats.
— Puppy training pads.
— Hay for the lambs.
— Chicken feed — both chick starter and adult feed.
Any donations can be dropped off at the Grabb Animal Shelter at 60 Industrial Drive in Fulton. Or call 573-642-7443 to make any arrangements.
Officials said some of the animals have vitamin deficiencies and respiratory and other issues from the environment they were in.
According to the search warrant affidavit, 8 of 10 dogs in Baxter’s residence were infested with fleas. Two of those dogs were service dogs, according to officials.
Staff at the animal shelter said they had to wash the dogs multiple times and provide them with the proper medications to get rid of the fleas.
The 137 animals included chickens, which was in violation of a city ordinance in Fulton that requires residents to have an acre of land in order to have chickens.
Barnes said the animals will not be available for adoption until the investigation is complete.
