8 dogs infested with fleas, internal parasites seized from Belton home; owner charged
A Belton, South Carolina, man is facing charges after authorities found eight dogs infested with fleas and internal parasites.
During the first week of September, the Anderson County Sheriff's Office's Animal Control Unit began looking into allegations of ill treatment of animals at a home on Cox Street in Belton.
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Deputies observed multiple dogs on the property that appeared to be ill-treated, including being visibly being underweight and malnourished and not having access to proper water and veterinary care.
The sheriff's office said 49-year-old James Louie Conard was identified as the owner of the dogs and was issued a notice to comply in regard to fixing these issues and finding the proper veterinary care for the animals.
During the investigation, it was discovered that Conard failed to meet those standards requested through the notice to comply.
Deputies obtained a search warrant and seized all eight dogs, including four puppies. The animals were transported to Anderson County PAWS, where initial medical assessment indicated they were infested with fleas, had internal parasite infestation, were dehydrated, had overgrown toenails, and at least one was labeled as severely malnourished and underweight.
According to the sheriff's office, Conard signed over custody of the eight dogs to Anderson County PAWS. The dogs will be available for adoption and/or transferred to a rescue organization after medical and temperament evaluations are complete.
On Thursday, Sept. 24, Conard was arrested and charged with eight counts of ill treatment of animals. We are told he has since been released on bond.