Lexington, Kentucky, January 14, 2026
In a harrowing case of animal cruelty, four poodles were rescued by Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control after being discovered in severely neglected conditions. The animals were found matted, emaciated, and dehydrated, prompting immediate rehabilitation efforts, including a major grooming makeover. The owner faces legal charges, and once rehabilitated, the dogs will be available for adoption through the Lexington Humane Society. This case underscores ongoing concerns about animal welfare in the community.
Lexington, Kentucky: Four Poodles Rescued and Rehabilitated After Cruelty Case
Lexington, Kentucky – In a significant animal welfare case, four severely neglected poodles were rescued and rehabilitated following a cruelty investigation initiated by Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control (LFACC). The case marks the department’s first animal cruelty charge of 2026.
Rescue and Initial Care
LFACC officers responded to a report of loose dogs, leading them to discover two adult poodles and two six-month-old poodles in distressing conditions. The dogs were found severely matted, emaciated, dehydrated, and covered in their own excrement. Their body condition was rated a 1 out of 9, indicating extreme neglect. The owner was cited under the local cruelty ordinance and surrendered the dogs to animal control.
Rehabilitation Efforts
Recognizing the severity of the dogs’ condition, Tiana Asberry, a former animal control officer and experienced dog groomer, volunteered to provide a life-changing grooming makeover. The grooming process, which took four hours, involved shaving off nearly all the dogs’ fur, stained yellow from urine. Despite their ordeal, the dogs exhibited tolerance and are on their way to recovery.
Legal Proceedings and Adoption
Crystal Wilhite has been charged in this case and is scheduled for arraignment on January 21. Once fully rehabilitated, the dogs will be available for adoption through the Lexington Humane Society, offering them a chance for a better life.
Background on Animal Cruelty in Lexington
This case highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare in Lexington. In previous incidents, such as the abandonment of 13 puppies set on fire in 2024, the community has faced challenges in addressing animal cruelty. Advocates emphasize the need for stricter laws and increased public awareness to prevent such abuses and ensure the safety of animals in the area.
FAQ
- What happened to the four poodles in Lexington?
- The four poodles were rescued by Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control after being found severely neglected, matted, emaciated, dehydrated, and covered in their own excrement. Their body condition was rated a 1 out of 9, indicating extreme neglect. The owner was cited under the local cruelty ordinance and surrendered the dogs to animal control.
- Who is responsible for the dogs’ condition?
- Crystal Wilhite has been charged in this case and is scheduled for arraignment on January 21. The charges stem from the severe neglect and mistreatment of the dogs, leading to their emaciated and unhygienic state.
- What is being done to rehabilitate the dogs?
- Tiana Asberry, a former animal control officer and experienced dog groomer, volunteered to provide a life-changing grooming makeover for the dogs. The grooming process, which took four hours, involved shaving off nearly all the dogs’ fur, stained yellow from urine. Despite their ordeal, the dogs exhibited tolerance and are on their way to recovery.
- When will the dogs be available for adoption?
- Once fully rehabilitated, the dogs will be available for adoption through the Lexington Humane Society, offering them a chance for a better life.
- What is the background on animal cruelty in Lexington?
- This case highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare in Lexington. In previous incidents, such as the abandonment of 13 puppies set on fire in 2024, the community has faced challenges in addressing animal cruelty. Advocates emphasize the need for stricter laws and increased public awareness to prevent such abuses and ensure the safety of animals in the area.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rescue Operation | Four severely neglected poodles were rescued by Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control after being found in a state of extreme neglect, including severe matting, emaciation, dehydration, and unsanitary conditions. The owner was cited under the local cruelty ordinance and surrendered the dogs to animal control. |
| Rehabilitation Efforts | Tiana Asberry, a former animal control officer and experienced dog groomer, volunteered to provide a life-changing grooming makeover for the dogs. The grooming process, which took four hours, involved shaving off nearly all the dogs’ fur, stained yellow from urine. Despite their ordeal, the dogs exhibited tolerance and are on their way to recovery. |
| Legal Proceedings | Crystal Wilhite has been charged in this case and is scheduled for arraignment on January 21. The charges stem from the severe neglect and mistreatment of the dogs, leading to their emaciated and unhygienic state. |
| Adoption Information | Once fully rehabilitated, the dogs will be available for adoption through the Lexington Humane Society, offering them a chance for a better life. |
| Background on Animal Cruelty in Lexington | This case highlights ongoing concerns about animal welfare in Lexington. In previous incidents, such as the abandonment of 13 puppies set on fire in 2024, the community has faced challenges in addressing animal cruelty. Advocates emphasize the need for stricter laws and increased public awareness to prevent such abuses and ensure the safety of animals in the area. |
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