In a disturbing case that has raised concerns about animal welfare, two women in Georgia have been arrested for allegedly conducting unauthorised surgical procedures on cats in a private residence. The investigation was launched after local authorities received a complaint about the alleged incidents.
Camryn Garrard, 27, and Sarah Benefield, 37, who do not possess valid veterinary licenses, have been charged with cruelty to animals and the unlawful practice of veterinary medicine. According to the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office, the women are accused of neutering two male cats at Benefield’s home in Newnan, Georgia, on 16 December.
Authorities suspect the surgeries may have been carried out without the use of anaesthesia, which would be a serious breach of animal welfare protocols. Garrard was employed by West Georgia Mobile Vet at the time of the alleged incidents, while Benefield had previously worked for the same practice.
However, when interviewed by investigators, the veterinarian in charge of the mobile clinic claimed to have no knowledge of any surgeries being performed by his staff. He also denied signing rabies vaccination paperwork for the cats, despite records indicating the animals had received shots under his name.
The cats, named Calvin and Klein, required follow-up care from licensed veterinarians but are believed to have recovered without suffering permanent injuries, according to officials from Fox5Atlanta.
Garrard and Benefield have since turned themselves in and were booked into the Coweta County Jail. The case has sparked outrage and concerns about the potential risks to animal welfare when unlicensed individuals attempt to perform medical procedures.
Authorities have urged pet owners to only seek veterinary care from licensed professionals to ensure the safety and well-being of their animals. The investigation is ongoing, and further details may emerge as the legal process unfolds.