Couple Jailed After 40 Dogs, 300 Chickens Seized In Delaware County Hoarding Case

Sheriff's deputies arrested a rural Jay couple after they raided their home in an animal hoarding investigation.  

Deputies found over 40 dogs, including puppies and cats at the home of Chris and Clare White.  The Department of Human Services also took the couple's five children ranging in age from 11 to 23 into protective custody,three of whom were juveniles.

The White's were booked into jail Friday on 38 complaints of animal cruelty.  

Sheriff Harlan Moore says deputies obtained a search warrant for the White's property and home after an investigation into animal abuse and neglect.

Deputies along with state licensed veterinarians and animal welfare organizations assisted in the investigation and seizure of the animals which also included approximately 300 chickens of varying ages and condition. 

“Oklahoma law requires pet owners to provide food, water, shelter, or veterinary care to prevent suffering – and failure to do so is a felony,” said Sheriff Harlan Moore.

Sheriff Moore says Dr. Carolyn Cash from Tulsa SPCA worked with volunteers from the Oklahoma Alliance for Animals, Tulsa SPCA, Peaceful Animal Adoption Shelter, Miami Animal Alliance and Ruth Steinberger of Spay First to care for the animals. 

Sheriff Harlan Moore says those who want  to help with the cost of caring for and treating the animals to contact Oklahoma Alliance for Animals.

The White's arrest comes less than two weeks after Delaware deputies shut down another animal hoarding case in Colcord.  Deputies arrested Dennis and Lisa Garcia after finding at least 21 dogs at their home and others buried on the property.

7/3/2016 Related Story: Delaware County Couple Arrested For Animal Cruelty