The founder of an animal rescue organization in Ohio killed 31 rescue dogs before taking her own life, police said.
Sandy Lertzman, a 62-year-old animal rights activist who founded the Animal Rights Foundation, and the 31 young dogs were found dead in a car inside the garage of her Moreland Hills home on Nov. 4, CNN reported.
One puppy was able to escape the car and was found alive. Investigators found prescription vials in the vehicle and a suicide note inside the house, the report said.
“She woke every day to help all of God’s beautiful creatures,” a statement on the Animal Rights Foundation website said. “She fed the deer, squirrels, birds, raccoons, geese and what she called ’Sandy’s Safe Haven For All Animals’ at her home.”
“Animal Rights Foundation will continue, as strong as ever, in Sandy’s memory,” the organization said. “We will go on caring, supporting, and helping all animals in distress and supporting laws to protect our animals in her honor.”
The surviving dog is recovering at home with her husband, Rick, and son, Matthew, CNN reported.
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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