It started with a phone call — a report of an unpleasant odor coming from a home in New Hartford. When Animal Control Officer John Treem arrived to investigate, he discovered that dozens of cats had been left behind inside the home, and all required care.
Unfortunately, resources were limited. The town’s animal control facility was temporarily closed for construction, and the local humane society was already at capacity. With no clear place to bring the animals, Officer Treem was left with few options and an urgent need to find help.
Treem began networking out, taking a few cats at a time to shelters in the area and farther out. Then, Treem called Lollypop Farm, nearly two hours away. Without hesitation, the Lollypop Farm Foster and Rescue team jumped into action to help take 22 cats from the case.
The frightened felines were transported over 100 miles to Lollypop Farm. Many were infested with fleas and suffering from ear mites, but remarkably, they were otherwise in good health. Here, each one was given comfort, care, and the promise of a better tomorrow.
Thanks to Lollypop Farm’s incredible foster network, these furry friends didn’t have to stay in the shelter for long. Most of them are kittens, just months old, who are now in foster care learning to trust people and settle into home life. Once they’re ready, they’ll be looking for families to love them. Their journey is only possible because compassionate people came together. It’s the generosity of fosters, donors, and supporters like you that empowers Lollypop Farm to respond in moments of crisis and to make a lasting impact on animal welfare across New York State.
Lollypop Farm often tries to help when other shelters are full or emergencies arise, because every pet deserves a second chance — no matter where they come from. With many rescues and shelters often at capacity, providing support to each other can help save more lives. Our Rescue and Transport Coordinator, Susie, works daily to connect animals with opportunities for healing and hope, whether that means finding them help elsewhere or bringing them here to Lollypop Farm.
Please note: the investigation in this case is ongoing and part of the New Hartford Police Department’s jurisdiction. Thanks to the hard work from Animal Control Officer Treem and the team in New Hartford, 54 cats have been removed from the property as of July 25th, and more traps have been set in case more are hiding. Charges have been filed, but are still pending.
There are so many ways to get involved and help animals find the loving homes they deserve. Learn how you can adopt, foster, or donate to help pets like these find the loving homes they deserve.
