Rescue of Abandoned Animals in Long Island

Authorities have rescued over 150 abandoned animals from a Long Island home owned by a woman whose daughter reported the dire conditions last month. There are concerns that more cats may still be unaccounted for.

The Nassau County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NCSPCA) confirmed that they rescued 155 animals—including two dogs—from a deteriorating residence on St. Andrews Lane, following the arrest of Glen Cove resident Alena Horbatko.

The rescue included more than 130 dogs and cats, with 43 of the cats discovered in critical condition at the time of Horbatko’s arrest on June 8.

Although it’s uncertain just how many animals lived in the home, NCSPCA officials fear that some may have escaped into the neighborhood.

NCSPCA Detective Brian Wasserman stated, “We have to keep trapping and keep coming back until there’s nothing left to trap.” The goal is to ensure they locate every last animal.

Local pet stores and adoption agencies have joined forces with the NCSPCA to help care for the rescued animals and find them permanent homes. Employees of the City of Glen Cove have even volunteered to foster or adopt some of the cats, offering food and supplies to support the recovery efforts.

One city worker, Sue Tripp, expressed, “I couldn’t help but want to help,” after adopting a kitten.

The situation was brought to light when Horbatko’s 18-year-old daughter called 911, worried about her younger sister’s safety. She explained the hazardous living conditions at their home, where dangerous levels of ammonia posed severe health risks.

When officials entered the residence, they had to wear protective gear, describing the environment as overwhelming: “There were cats everywhere you looked.” Unfortunately, the conditions inside were so grim that one dog died in the home, with another passing away on the way to a vet.

Food available was deemed insufficient for the 65 cats, heavily contaminated with dirt and debris, according to legal documents. The water was also described as unfit for consumption and unsanitary.

Two dogs discovered in the home were found without food or clean water, relying on a dirty kiddie pool as their only water source.

Reports indicate that Horbatko was running a website for selling animals. She has pleaded guilty to numerous counts of animal cruelty, alongside other charges related to child endangerment.

After her arraignment on June 9, she was released on her own recognizance and has a court appearance scheduled for August 10. A judge has prohibited her from owning animals and issued protective orders. Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly is contemplating additional charges against Horbatko.

The NCSPCA has yet to comment on the situation publicly.