BEDFORD, N.Y. - The owner/founder of a kennel and animal rescue organization in Bedford is facing charges of animal cruelty for the second time, SPCA Westchester announced recently.
Penny Berk, who runs Rescue Right at Northwind Kennels on Route 22 (Old Post Road), had been arrested this past July by the SPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement Unit after a mother Bernese Mountain Dog and her four puppies were discovered in critical condition there.
They all were suffering with distemper, a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus that attacks the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous system of dogs and other mammals.
The stricken animals were taken to a private veterinary hospital for treatment. All five had to be euthanized.
According to a SPCA spokesperson, distemper is “highly preventable with proper vaccinations medical treatment.”
Berk pleaded not guilty in Bedford Town Court to five counts of animal cruelty.
On Oct. 4, SPCA Westchester officials observed two cattle dog/Australian Shepherd mixes in distress and displaying severe symptoms of the distemper virus while in Berk’s care.
Felix and Nelly were coughing, having difficulty breathing, lethargic, and had visible nasal discharges.
They were also brought by SPCA officials to a local vet. They had to be euthanized as well, because their conditions had deteriorated to the point of no return.
The dogs were taken in by Rescue right on or before April 30, 2023.
According to SPCA Westchester, Berk couldn’t produce any records that either dog had received veterinary care.
“It’s important to note that distemper is highly preventable with proper vaccinations and timely medical treatment. Felix and Nelly, like the five Bernese Mountain dogs were neglected for too long by Berk,” the spokesperson said, adding: “They suffered and never truly had a chance.”
Berk was arrested again by SPCA Westchester and hit with two more charges of animal cruelty.
Her next court appearance is Jan. 23 at the Mount Kisco Justice Court.
SPCA Westchester, a no-kill animal rescue center located in Briarcliff Manor, is asking folks to call its hotline at (914) 941-7797 if they suspect or witness animal abuse or neglect.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
For more information, visit www.spcawestchester.org, email info@spcawestchester.org, or call (914) 941-2896.
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