New York gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman has voiced a call for enhanced animal protection measures following the rescue of 155 neglected cats and dogs from a hoarder’s residence on Long Island.
As the Nassau County Executive and a dedicated advocate for animal rights, Blakeman made a passionate appeal on Tuesday at the City of Glen Cove Animal Shelter. He was joined by staff members and the Nassau County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).
During the press conference, Blakeman emphasized the critical importance of ensuring that animals are safe, well-cared-for, and free from neglect or abuse. This call to action came in response to the arrest of a Glen Cove resident who was found to have kept over 150 animals in appalling conditions.
Blakeman stated, “We recently discovered over 150 cats in one person’s home, and it’s alleged they were being bred for profit.” He further stressed the necessity of being able to intervene and rehome these animals.
Among the rescued animals were two dogs.
Animal rights activist and commentator Rob Becerra reinforced Blakeman’s comments, advocating for the establishment of a statewide animal welfare department.
Becerra remarked, “New York needs a Department of Animal Welfare to manage all animal-related issues statewide,” suggesting that such a department would better address illegal activities like backyard breeding and animal abuse.
“We have a moral duty to protect the most defenseless in our society,” Becerra added, criticizing Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration for its perceived indifference to animal cruelty.
Becerra recounted confronting the lieutenant governor regarding a case involving severe animal abuse and expressed disappointment in their reaction. He suggested Blakeman would be more effective in addressing such issues.
Blakeman’s advocacy for stronger animal safety measures follows the arrest of Alena Horbatko, whose daughter exposed the squalid conditions in her Glen Cove home. The Nassau County SPCA reported that 153 cats and two dogs were rescued from the premises on June 8.
Despite being independent from the government, the Nassau County SPCA faces limitations in its authority to protect at-risk animals.
A veteran of the Cove Animal Shelter shared at the press conference her experiences of witnessing repeated efforts to secure a warrant to enter Horbatko’s home, highlighting the challenges posed by current laws.
Local adoption agencies and pet stores have assisted the Nassau County SPCA in finding permanent homes for the rescued animals, including Allie, a German Shepherd, who was present at the press conference.
Horbatko has pleaded guilty to numerous counts of animal cruelty and related charges and has been prohibited from owning animals. She is scheduled to appear in court on August 10.
