BARTO, Pa. – Animal cruelty charges have been filed against a Pennsylvania small-animal dealer that supplied major pet retailers like Petco and PetSmart.
The Montgomery County district attorney's office and Douglass Township police say 49-year-old Clinton Arthur Holmes, of Alburtis, has been cited for 28 instances of animal cruelty.
Wednesday's charges followed an investigation at Holmes Farm in Barto that revealed seven gerbils, seven chinchillas, six hamsters, six guinea pigs, one rabbit and one ferret weren't properly cared for.
Each citation carries a punishment of up to 90 days in jail and a $50 to $750 fine per citation.
The investigation came after an animal-rights group shot video showing substandard conditions at the facility.
Petco said in January it severed its relationship with Holmes. PetSmart announced in May it had severed ties with Holmes.
A message seeking comment from Holmes wasn't returned.
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