Felix and Nellie had to be euthanized
SPCA Westchester announced today that their Humane Law Enforcement Unit (HLE), under the direction of Ernest Lungaro, arrested Penny Berk of Bedford, NY for a second time and have charged her with two additional counts of animal cruelty, totaling 7 counts to date.
On October 4, 2023 SPCA Westchester officials observed two Cattle Dog/Australian Shepherd mixes in distress and displaying severe symptoms of the Distemper Virus while in Ms. Berk’s care. The two mixes, named Felix and Nelly (formally Sasha) were coughing and having difficulty breathing. They were also lethargic and had visible nasal discharges. Felix and Nelly were brought to a local animal hospital where they were diagnosed with the Distemper Virus and had to be euthanized as their condition had deteriorated to the point that they could not be saved. No records could be produced by Ms. Berk showing that either dog had received veterinary care. It appears that Felix and Nelly entered Rescue Right on or before April 30, 2023.
Ms. Berk was also arrested by SPCA Westchester officials and charged with 5 counts of animal cruelty this past July when five Bernese Mountain Dogs were discovered in critical condition at Rescue Right while suffering with the Distemper Virus after being denied veterinary care. It is important to note that the Distemper Virus is highly preventable with proper vaccinations and timely medical treatment. Felix and Nelly, like the 5 Bernese Mountain Dogs, were neglected for too long by Ms. Berk. They suffered and never truly had a chance.
Ms. Berk’s next court appearance is set for January 6th at the Mount Kisco Justice Court. If you witness or suspect an animal is being abused or neglected, please call the SPCA’s Cruelty Hotline at (914) 941-7797.
