Overview

• Police and animal control officers initially retreated from the Sky Hill Road home due to overwhelming odors of urine and bleach.
• Building and zoning officials found no air conditioning, excessive waste and signs of inbreeding before declaring the property uninhabitable.
• A coordinated response by the Wauconda Police Department, Fire Department, Lake County Animal Control and health authorities resulted in the removal of 52 dogs, with one officer treated for a dog bite.
• All animals have been transferred to Reach Rescue, Wags 2 Wishes Animal Rescue, Waukegan Police Animal Control and Lake County Animal Care and Control for evaluation and rehoming.
• Homeowner Carol Reith signed relinquishment forms, was charged with animal cruelty and is scheduled to appear in Lake County court on July 24.