Neglected Dogs Rescued from Reynolds Road Property; Investigation Ongoing – By Leslie Kulwik

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On the morning of April 7, officials with the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the Humane Society of Atlanta responded to a property on Reynolds Road in Folkston to remove dogs that had been left abandoned, as previously reported.   They were joined on scene by members of the Charlton County Sheriff’s Office, local rescuer Mary Tofil, and neighbor Cheyenne Gaskin-Houser.   Authorities discovered a total of 16 dogs on the property that day—11 alive and 5 deceased. When combined with the three dogs (a mother and two puppies) previously removed by Tofil on April 3, the total number of dogs involved in the case rises to 19.   The surviving dogs were found in extremely poor condition, suffering from malnourishment, dehydration, heavy flea infestations, and intestinal worms. The deceased animals appeared to have died over a period ranging from several weeks to a few months.   Each dog was photographed, cataloged, and fitted with a numbered identification collar as part of the investigation. Many of the surviving animals were frightened and had to be carefully coaxed out by Tofil and Gaskin-Houser.   Officials described the property and residence as deplorable and uninhabitable. Documentation of the scene was conducted by both the Humane Society of Atlanta and the Department of Agriculture.   After being transported to the Humane Society of Atlanta, one dog required immediate emergency care and was rushed to a veterinary hospital. The animal was suffering from a gunshot wound, untreated bite injuries, and severe starvation and dehydration.   The property owner, Jerry Slaten – father of resident Jody Slate – was instructed by the Sheriff’s Office to clean up the site. Over the weekend, volunteers assisted in demolishing and clearing the property. However, during the cleanup, debris was burned despite an active burn ban in Charlton County. According to neighbors, the fire grew significantly and continued burning until at least 3 a.m. Citations were issued by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for violating the burn ban.   Jody Slaten, who is believed to have been the current resident of the home, is reportedly now living in New York and out on bond for a different incident, and is expected to face charges related to this animal abandonment and neglect.   Neighbors in the area stated they had attempted to help the animals by bringing food once a week, but acknowledged the dogs needed to be removed from the unsafe conditions.   This case has left many in the community feeling frustrated and helpless in preventing similar situations. Officials and rescuers emphasize the importance of reporting suspected neglect.   “If you see something, say something,” advocates urge. “We are the voices for these animals. If we don’t step up to help, who will?”

Community Support Needed

Tofil Farm Heeler Sanctuary extends its gratitude to everyone who has assisted in rescuing and caring for these animals over the past several weeks. The sanctuary continues to care for more than 18 dogs locally in Folkston.

Those interested in donating or volunteering can contact Mary Tofil at 828-553-1765.

Mailing Address for Physical Donations: 171 Camp Pinckney Dr Folkston, GA 31537