Merrimac Police Remove 60 Dogs from Property During Animal Welfare Investigation, Appeal for Adopters

MERRIMAC — On Tuesday, June 11, 60 Boxer dogs were removed from a property in the Town of Merrimac as part of a multi-jurisdictional investigation into reports of animal hoarding and overcrowding.
The investigation was opened by the Windham Police Department, NH, and also involves the Merrimac Police Department, Haverhill Police Department, and the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA).
The Boxer dogs were voluntarily surrendered by the Locust Grove Rd homeowner, and have been placed in the care of the MSPCA and currently reside in shelters.
As part of the investigation, Haverhill Police also searched another property in that town, however the search did not discover any dogs or find cause for concern.
“Every domesticated animal has a right to minimum standards of nutrition, sanitation and veterinary care,” Merrimac Police Department Chief Eric Shears said. “Animal hoarding and overcrowding is dangerous because it jeopardizes the ability of animals to receive appropriate care, and we will investigate any reports of those occurrences.”
The multi-jurisdictional investigation is active and ongoing. No charges have been filed at this time. The lead investigator assigned to the case at Merrimac Police is Detective Stephen Beaulieu. Anyone with information is asked to call Merrimac Police at 978-346-8321.
To adopt a Boxer, monitor the page www.mspca.org/adoptadog for listings as they become available, and to make a donation to the MSPCA, visit www.mspca.org/boxers
The Boxers will become available for adoption as soon as June 17 at shelters across Boston, Methuen, and Salem.
The statements in relation to this case are allegations. All suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty.