FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO) — Humane Fort Wayne has taken in several dogs removed from a northeastern Indiana rescue operation whose founder is facing multiple felony animal cruelty charges, according to court records and shelter officials.
Prosecutors in DeKalb County allege that Cara Seiler, the founder and director of Canine Haven Rescue in Waterloo, kept dozens of dogs in deplorable conditions. Court documents say the animals were malnourished, living in their own feces and, in some cases, suffering from untreated medical issues, including heartworm disease.
Seiler has been charged with 12 counts of animal cruelty and could face up to 12 years in prison if convicted. A court date has not yet been scheduled.
Humane Fort Wayne Executive Director Jessica Henry-Johnson said the scope of the case was alarming and required immediate intervention. She said many of the dogs taken in by the shelter were hungry, sick and traumatized after prolonged neglect.
“None of it mattered where they came from or how they got there,” Henry-Johnson said. “We just knew they couldn’t be cared for where they were, and we were pleased to be able to step in and help.”
According to court documents, Seiler admitted to feeding dogs expired dog food. Investigators also reported that four of the dogs had been confined to cages for four to six years. Officers wrote that Seiler begged them not to remove the animals or “get her in trouble,” saying the rescue was her entire life.
Humane Fort Wayne has taken in 25 dogs connected to the case over the past two weeks. Of those, 18 have already been adopted, Henry-Johnson said.
She said caring for animals rescued from abusive situations can be demanding, but the impact is significant.
“It’s sort of like the starfish philosophy,” Henry-Johnson said. “If we can help in this one case, it matters to those dogs. And once we get them into homes, we’ll be able to step up and help again.”
Details of the investigation and charges were first reported by 21Alive .
Seiler remains presumed innocent under the law. DeKalb County prosecutors have not said whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Humane Fort Wayne said it will continue working with law enforcement and other shelters to provide care for animals removed from unsafe conditions.
