An illegal animal shelter has been discovered in a private apartment in Novaya Ladoga, Russia, where dozens of animals were found living in deplorable conditions. The situation came to light on June 6th, revealing a disturbing scene of neglect and unsanitary conditions.

Inside the apartment, a deceased cat was found wrapped in a towel in the kitchen, highlighting the severity of the situation.

Reports indicate that approximately 60 cats and two dogs were being kept in the apartment as of May. The owner of the apartment is described as a woman of pre-retirement or retirement age.

A volunteer who visited the apartment about a month ago reported that the two dogs were tethered, restricting their movement. Many of the animals appeared sick and emaciated, suggesting a lack of proper care and nutrition.

The owner is reportedly not consulting a veterinarian due to financial constraints, instead relying on online consultations for the animals’ medical needs. The apartment is not being cleaned on a regular basis, contributing to the unsanitary environment.

Preliminary information suggests that the owner is burying dead animals near a heating main, a practice that violates regulations requiring cremation of animal corpses. Furthermore, it has been reported that none of the animals that were housed in the “shelter” a year ago are still present.