Local

Dozens of cats rescued from Shaler Township woman's home

SHALER TOWNSHIP, Pa. — After months of trying to help the owner, dozens of cats were rescued from a Shaler Township woman's home on Thursday afternoon.

Animal Friends officials and police were at Jennifer Goetz’s home on Soose Road rescuing what is believed to be 25 to 30 cats from inside.

“We’re finding a house totally and completely trashed by cats. There were no rugs left and no surfaces not covered in feces,” Animals Friends Humane Agent Kathy Hecker said.

According to Hecker, the cats “had the run of the house,” and neighbors told her they’ve seen Goetz sleeping in her car.

Channel 11's Jodine Costanzo reported that Goetz is well known in the animal rescue community.

“She always showed up well-dressed, driving a nice car and did a good job. I trusted her,” Hecker said.

Officials said Goetz told police that she’s fallen on hard time.

“Another rescuer came over to help her out, and was shocked and horrified,” Hecker said.

Goetz is facing animal cruelty charges.