Rescue Shelter Owner Is Arrested Again For Neglect Of Animals

BEDFORD, NY — A shelter and kennel owner has been arrested and again accused of animal cruelty by police.

SPCA Westchester announced today that their Humane Law Enforcement Unit (HLE), under the direction of Ernest Lungaro, arrested Penny Berk, of Bedford, for a second time and have charged her with two new counts of animal cruelty, totaling seven counts to date.

On October 4, 2023, SPCA Westchester officials say they discovered two Cattle Dog/Australian Shepherd mixes in distress and displaying severe symptoms of the distemper virus while in Berk’s care. The two mixes, named Felix and Nelly, were coughing and having difficulty breathing, according to the investigators. They were also reportedly lethargic and had visible nasal discharges.

Felix and Nelly were brought to a local animal hospital where they were diagnosed with the distemper virus and had to be euthanized, as their condition had deteriorated to the point that they could not be saved. No records could be produced by Berk showing that either dog had received veterinary care, according to the investigators.

The HLE said it appears that Felix and Nelly entered Rescue Right at some time before April 30, 2023.

SEE ALSO: Kennel And Animal Rescue Owner Charged With 5 Counts of Animal Cruelty

Berk was also arrested by SPCA Westchester officials and charged with 5 counts of animal cruelty this past July when five Bernese Mountain Dogs were discovered in critical condition at Rescue Right while suffering with the distemper virus, when officials said the dogs had been denied veterinary care.

The distemper virus is easily preventable with proper vaccinations and timely medical treatment, according to health officials.

"Felix and Nelly, like the 5 Bernese Mountain Dogs, were neglected for too long by Ms. Berk," the SPCA Westchester said in a statement announcing the most recent arrest. "They suffered and never truly had a chance."

Berk’s next court appearance is set for January 6, at the Mount Kisco Justice Court.

The SPCA Westchester is urging anyone who witnesses or suspects an animal is being abused or neglected to call the SPCA’s Cruelty Hotline at 914-941-7797.

SPCA Westchester is a No-Kill Animal Rescue Center located in Briarcliff Manor and is NOT affiliated with any national animal welfare organizations. Learn more here.