Staff Report / May 1, 2026
Authorities and animal welfare officials are working to care for dozens of dogs removed from a home in Steuben County, following a multi-agency effort over the past two weeks.
According to the Finger Lakes SPCA, a total of 34 dogs have been taken from a residence in the Town of Avoca. The most recent operation occurred on Friday, April 24, when 26 dogs were removed with assistance from the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department.
The latest action follows an earlier removal of eight dogs the previous week, which was carried out with the cooperation of the owner and in coordination with Avoca Dog Control Officers Deb and Mike Matthews. Of those initial eight dogs, three were transferred to the Hornell Area Humane Society, while the remaining five were taken in by the SPCA. Officials report that all eight of those dogs have since been adopted into new homes.
Of the 26 dogs removed in the most recent operation, only seven have been formally signed over to the SPCA. The remaining 19 are currently being held pending court action. The seven dogs now available for placement are Irish Setter puppies, estimated to be between five and six months old. The SPCA has begun accepting adoption applications for those animals and is also seeking foster homes for additional dogs still under care.
The influx of animals has placed significant strain on the shelter’s resources. The Finger Lakes SPCA reports it is currently housing 39 dogs—more than double its intended capacity.
Officials say community assistance is urgently needed. In addition to adoption and fostering, the shelter is requesting donations of specific food items, including Purina One Large Breed Puppy Food, Purina One Chicken and Rice dry food, and Pedigree Chopped Dinner wet food. Financial contributions are also being accepted to help offset the cost of care.
Those interested in helping are encouraged to contact the Finger Lakes SPCA directly or submit applications through the organization’s website.
The SPCA expressed gratitude to all agencies involved in the effort, including the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department, Avoca dog control officers, local code enforcement, and the Hornell Area Humane Society, for their roles in what officials described as an unusual and large-scale rescue operation.Ads do not influence the answers you get from ChatGPT. Your chats stay private. Learn about ads and personalization
