The SPCA Westchester announced on Wednesday a second arrest of Penny Berk, Founder of Rescue Right/Owner of Northwind Kennels in Bedford, NY.
The SPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement Unit, under the direction of Ernest Lungaro, have arrested Ms. Berk of Bedford for a second time and charged her with two additional counts of animal cruelty, totaling 7 counts to date.
SPCA of Westchester Instagram
According to the post, “On October 4, 2023 SPCA Westchester officials observed two Cattle Dog/Australian Shepherd mixes in distress and displaying severe symptoms of the Distemper Virus while in Ms. Berk’s care. The two mixes, named Felix and Nelly (formally Sasha) were coughing and having difficulty breathing. They were also lethargic and had visible nasal discharges. Felix and Nelly were brought to a local animal hospital where they were diagnosed with the Distemper Virus and had to be euthanized as their condition had deteriorated to the point that they could not be saved. No records could be produced by Ms. Berk showing that either dog had received veterinary care. It appears that Felix and Nelly entered Rescue Right on or before April 30, 2023.”
SPCA of Westchester Instagram
Ms. Berk was also arrested by SPCA Westchester officials and charged with 5 counts of animal cruelty this past July when five Bernese Mountain Dogs were discovered in critical condition at Rescue Right while suffering with the Distemper Virus after being denied veterinary care.
“It is important to note that the Distemper Virus is highly preventable with proper vaccinations and timely medical treatment. Felix and Nelly, like the 5 Bernese Mountain Dogs, were neglected for too long by Ms. Berk. They suffered and never truly had a chance,” SPCA Westchester said in their announcement.
Ms. Berk’s attorney AJ Siano said in an email, “Ms. Smith-Berk denies the charges against her and we intend to defend this case vigorously going forward in court.”
Ms. Berk’s next court appearance is set for January 6, 2025 at the Mount Kisco Justice Court.
SPCA Westchester asks that anyone witnessing or suspect an animal is being abused or neglected to call the SPCA’s Cruelty Hotline at (914) 941-7797.
See also:
Bedford Woman Charged by SPCA Westchester Humane Law Enforcement Unit with Animal Cruelty
July 18, 2024