Officers Find Dead Animals at Dave's Family Feed and Pet Supply

San Diego Humane Society officials seized more than 30 birds, rodents and reptiles from a Lemon Grove pet store that were allegedly left inside the closed business for days, organization officials said Friday.

The San Diego Humane Society and SPCA's Humane Law Enforcement served a search warrant at Dave's Family Feed and Pet Supply on Broadway on Wednesday after receiving complaints that the store had allegedly closed for business with several animals left inside, according to humane society spokeswoman Kelli Herwehe.

Officials seized 16 birds, 11 chickens, rodents and reptiles, including a python snake, Herwehe said.

The search turned up half a dozen dead animals and other animals that were allegedly housed in unhealthy conditions and were often left without water, Humane Law Enforcement Director Randy Lawrence said.

"Our humane officers will review the evidence collected during the search and file charges, which could potentially include California Health and Safety Code violations and potential animal cruelty and neglect," Lawrence said.

The animals will receive full veterinary exams and care at the San Diego Humane Society and will remain in its care until the case is reviewed for possible prosecution.

The store owner's name was not released, pending possible charges, Herwehe said.

The animals are not available for adoption at this time, she said.

—City News Service