BOISE - Five dogs previously rescued by the Idaho Humane Society in Gem County were ordered to be forfeited to the Idaho Humane Society, officials say.

They will now be adopted by the Idaho Humane Society to new owners. The owner of the dogs, John Pascale, pled guilty to two misdemeanor counts of Cruelty to Animals. A separate sentencing hearing will be conducted at a future date, however the defendant agreed to attend an animal care class held by the Idaho Humane Society and to undergo a psychological evaluation prior to the sentencing hearing.

The dogs had been seized March 21 by the Gem County Sheriff's Department, when it was discovered that the animals were being kept in confinement in extremely unsanitary conditions. Staff from the Idaho Humane Society assisted the Sheriff's Department at the scene, removing the dogs, all of which are Walker hound or other hound breed mixes, and they were transported to the Idaho Humane Society's shelter in Boise where they remained in protective custody.

On Jan. 24, the same dogs were discovered in New Plymouth chained outside in freezing conditions.The Payette County Sheriff's Department responded to the complaints of witnesses that alleged the dogs were suffering from starvation, wounds and frozen limbs due to exposure. Subsequently, the dogs were transported out of Payette County and into Gem County.

Cruelty to animals, and neglect of animals, are misdemeanor offenses in Idaho, punishable with up to 6 months in jail and fines of up to $5,000.

Additionally, the Idaho Humane Society maintains a toll free animal cruelty and neglect hot line to receive reports of suspected animal cruelty, neglect or animal fighting from citizens throughout the region, the number is 1-866-430-9432. 

For more information on reporting animal cruelty or how to adopt, visit the Idaho Humane Society website.