Petting zoo animals found in 'horrible' conditions in Davie

Davie police, ARM investigators investigating whether animals will be seized

DAVIE, Fla. – Davie police, along with Animal Recovery Mission investigators, said an anonymous tip led them to at least 25 petting zoo animals found in horrible condition.

Investigators showed up to a farm off Southwest 39th Street, where they said they found ponies, pigs and goats among other animals starving and with next to no water.

"Many of animals yesterday, it being an extremely hot day, had no water (and) little to no food," Richard Couto of ARM said. "Some of the animals were standing in their own feces and filth. Many people in this neighborhood have been complaining about these animals being neglected by this business owner for some time now."

The owner of the animals, who ARM officials said rents them out on the weekends for parties, is under investigation, and authorities are working to determine whether or not the animals will be seized.

Couto believes an arrest could come Thursday.

"The animals possibly have parasites, which makes it extremely hard for them to gain weight," Couto said. "You can see this pig's spine and they have mange."

The owner rents the property from Walter Mears.

Mears defended the man, saying the animals are old and said the complaints lacked any real merit.

No charges have been filed as Davie police continue to search the property and evaluate the animals.

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About the Author
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Andrew Perez is a South Florida native who joined the Local 10 News team in May 2014.

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