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More than 1,100 chinchillas rescued from neglected Ohio breeding facility
Federal agents said 59 violations led to the rescue, and Humane World for Animals is treating nearly 1,000 chinchillas after the operation.
- Federal authorities permanently closed R & R Chinchilla Inc. in Jenera, Ohio, after the U.S. District Court for the Northern District approved a consent decree requiring the facility to surrender more than 1,100 chinchillas.
- Owner James F. Ritterspach concealed approximately 800 chinchillas in a separate building for years while falsely telling inspectors the facility housed only 300 to 450 animals, following USDA documentation of 59 violations over four years.
- Inspectors reported ammonia levels strong enough to force them from the building, open rat poison packets near enclosures, and animals suffering from untreated medical conditions including matted fur and sores; multiple dead animals were also found.
- Humane World for Animals rescued nearly 1,000 chinchillas yesterday and transported them to safety for veterinary care. "In buildings that appeared to have been neglected for years, we found row after row of chinchillas living in filthy cages," Mark Finneran, Humane World's Ohio state director, said.
- The settlement permanently bars Ritterspach from engaging in regulated animal operations, and the USDA revoked his federal license. Responders noted rescued chinchillas are exploring new environments and enjoying dust baths in care.
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Total News Sources24
Leaning Left1Leaning Right0Center20Last UpdatedBias Distribution95% Center
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C 95%
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