Deborah Dahl’s trial on animal cruelty charges was set to be heard in Columbus County District Court Tuesday, but was continued to Oct. 1.
Dahl, 70, faces 21 counts of cruelty to animals, including two felony charges. Dozens of dogs and other animals were removed from her home on Pone Hill Road in Hallsboro in July.
Detectives and Animal Protective Services (APS) went to the property with state officials in May after a report that Dahl allegedly performed a medical procedure on a dog and posted the video of the operation on social media.
Officials said they found dozens of animals in small cages, some with no shade. Others were stacked on top of other cages, and urine and feces fell on the dogs below. Several rabbits also had health issues. At least one dead dog was found on the scene as well. Investigators said some of the animals were barely able to walk, and had not been outside of their cages for extended periods.
In July, the property was raided by APS and the sheriff’s office. With the assistance of the ASPCA, officials seized a total of 94 animals ranging from Shi Tzus and mixed puppies to Cane Corso dogs, along with rabbits, Highland cattle and donkeys. Around 14 of the animals died during transport to a rescue facility, or later while undergoing medical treatment.
A judge later ruled that since an assistant district attorney did not have the animals available for examination, as ordered by the court, the animals would have to be returned to Dahl. All her charges were dismissed, but she was immediately recharged with 19 misdemeanor and two felony counts of cruelty.
Th county also dismissed a civil case against Dahl. As allowed by law, county officials were asking for more than $30,000 to help provide food, housing and medical care for the animals that were in custody.
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