Animals Taken From Facility Need Homes

Some of the more than 600 dogs and cats confiscated in July from an unlicensed animal rescue operation are now available for adoption, the city Department of Animal Services announced Monday.

“We plan on holding all the animals as long as they are healthy and we have room for them,” said department spokesman Peter Persic. “Some will make very nice pets.”

In July, authorities--citing filthy and inhumane conditions--removed 28 dogs and 589 cats from a Pets for Life facility located on a Van Nuys residential street. Doris Romeo, the operator of the nonprofit rescue operation that specialized in feral, abandoned and diseased felines, was arrested and charged with cruelty and neglect.

About 100 of the animals have been claimed by their owners while about 45% of the total, many of them already dying when they were removed, have been euthanized, said Persic.

But hundreds of others, including more than 60 tame dogs and cats, have responded well to medical treatment and are ready for adoption, Persic said.

While healthy, many of the tame animals have been exposed to illnesses and have special health needs, Persic said, adding that the department will discuss those needs with potential owners.

Caring for the animals has cost the city more than $70,000.

“It’s put a huge burden on the resources and staff of the department,” Persic said. “Especially since so many of the animals are feral, their care and feeding is very difficult.”

To inquire about adopting one of the animals, call or visit one of the three animal service centers where they are being housed:

* East Valley Animal Services Center, 13131 Sherman Way, North Hollywood, (818) 756-8445.

* West Valley Animal Services Center, 20655 Plummer St., Chatsworth, (818) 756-8485.

* North Central Animal Services Center, 3201 Lacy St., Lincoln Heights.

The centers are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.