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November 25, 2009

Judge rules animals, reptiles forfeited

Susan Wagoner

Animals and reptiles seized during a Sept. 4 search of The Fishery Pet Store in Pryor were forfeited Friday after a ruling from the judge.

According to Pryor Police Detective Sergeant Steve Lemmings, all of the animals taken were forfeited.

Sixty reptiles, 13 guinea pigs and three ferrets were taken during the search. Owner Kathy Laughlin and operator William Wendt have since been charged with animal cruelty. They are scheduled to appear on the Dec. 3 Sounding Docket.

The search came after Pryor Police received several complaints “in regard to the poor living conditions of the animals.”

At the time of the search, veterinarian Carolynne Cash said the reptiles were dehydrated and the cages were filthy.

“Over half of the snakes taken have died,” Lemmings said, adding that one of the guinea pigs died as well.

The remaining reptiles and animals are being adopted out, Lemmings said. Laughlin and Wendt are still responsible for the more than $2,200 in animal care fees incurred during the time between the search and the hearing where the animals were forfeited.

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