UPDATE: One animal euthanized after Macon animal abuse rescue

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The couple accused of hoarding more than 80 animals in their Macon home had their first appearance in court Wednesday. Both have been released from jail.  They each have a bond set at $16,700.

“She’s got pus and mucus coming out of her mouth, exposure to long term ammonia levels. Her body score is probably less than one,” said Macon-Bibb Animal Welfare Director Sonja Adams as she held the only animal that was euthanized after Tuesday night’s animal abuse case.

Animal welfare took more than 80 animals out of the Worsham Avenue home.

“It literally breaks my heart. The cat is so sweet. It just wants to love you and be loved on and petted and there’s nothing we can do to save it,” said Adams.

61-year-old Dennis Hastings and 59-year-old Peggy Hastings are facing felony animal cruelty charges for keeping the animals in unfit living conditions. 

“Feces and urine everywhere. Roaches, mice. It was just horrible, horrible living conditions,” recalled Adams.

Adams said animal welfare has been working with the Hastings for more than a year.

“We removed ten animals probably about eight months ago. Over the past six months, this rescue organization stepped up to help get his animals spayed and neutered to try to either reduce his numbers or keep them at the same level,” explained Adams.

Dennis told animal welfare he only had about 30 animals, according to Adams. There’s no limit to how many animals someone can own in Bibb County.

“But you have to be able to properly take care of them,” added Adams.

Animal welfare took in 27 animals for immediate care. The rescue group took the others and will be picking up the rest by Thursday. Adams said no animals in the shelter before this case will be euthanized.

“We’re marching on with business as normal. This was a pre-planned event that we coordinated with this rescue group,” explained Adams.

The rest of the animals are expected to make a full recovery, but because of the unsocialized environment they were living in, they may not be able to be adopted. 

If you suspect any animal abuse in your neighborhood, call Macon-Bibb Animal Welfare at (478) 621-6791. You can remain anonymous.

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The Bibb County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an animal cruelty case that happened at 4080 Worsham Avenue.

About 85 malnourished and diseased cats and dogs were removed from the home.  The animals were taken to the county veterinarian to be checked.  We’re told some may not survive.

Deputies arrested 61-year-old Dennis Carl Hastings and 59-year-old Peggy Lynn Hastings.  Both are charged with felony animal cruelty.