Brooklyn homeowner found dead with 115 neglected dogs declined assistance for years, report neighbors.

A tragic case has emerged from Brooklyn, where authorities discovered 115 neglected and malnourished dogs in deplorable conditions at a local residence. The situation unfolded after the owner of the home, Eileen Horn, a 73-year-old retired school psychologist, was reported dead by her sister. Following this report, law enforcement was granted entry into the home, unveiling one of the largest animal rescue operations in recent history.

Residents in the Mill Basin neighborhood had repeatedly expressed concerns about Horn’s welfare and the pungent odors emanating from her property. Records indicate that neighbors had lodged numerous complaints regarding animal abuse and unsanitary living conditions at the residence since at least 2014. Despite their calls for wellness checks and assistance, police had previously been unable to access the home, as Horn would not allow them inside.

When authorities finally entered the premises, they found Horn deceased on the first floor of the residence. Surrounding her were 115 dogs, many suffering from severe neglect, with five dogs found dead. The condition of the living animals was alarming; their fur was matted with feces and urine, and at least one dog was in the process of giving birth. Rescuers reported that the dogs were terrified, having likely never experienced life outside the confines of the unsanitary environment.

Sean Casey, the owner of Sean Casey Animal Rescue, remarked on the poor condition of the dogs, stating that they were extremely nervous and would require significant care before they could be rehabilitated. Some of the long-haired breeds demonstrated severe matting, necessitating sedation during grooming to mitigate their distress. The rescue operation prompted a temporary evacuation order for the property, with responders continuing to remove dogs and clear debris from the yard.

The Animal Care Centers of NYC, in conjunction with the ASPCA, spearheaded the initial rescue efforts, with support from various other animal welfare organizations. As of Saturday, reports indicated that 68 of the rescued dogs had already been placed in foster homes or adopted by caring families. While these dogs are not housebroken, Casey expressed optimism about their future adoptability, noting that they have started to warm to human interaction in their new shelter environment.

Community members have reported being shocked by the scale of the situation, having previously assumed only a handful of dogs lived in the home. Complaints about noxious odors had become commonplace, but the true extent of the neglect was only revealed upon the entry of law enforcement.

In the wake of this disturbing discovery, neighbors and animal advocates are grappling with the implications of such neglect. As community members reflect on this situation, the focus is shifting toward action and advocacy for responsible pet ownership and the welfare of animals. Those interested in adopting one of the rehabilitated dogs are encouraged to visit the Animal Care Centers of NYC’s website for more information.