Woman Sentenced for Animal Neglect After 37 Dogs, Cats Removed from Michigan Home

Karmen Alletia Schooly ordered to jail, probation, and surrender pets after authorities found animals living in poor conditions.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A Michigan woman has been sentenced to 92 days in jail and two years' probation for animal neglect after authorities removed 37 dogs and cats from her home in Pontiac. Karmen Alletia Schooly, who was the president of Tri-County Dog Rescue, was ordered not to care for any animals and required to surrender her remaining pets. She was also ordered to take animal cruelty prevention and impulse control courses.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of holding pet owners accountable for the humane treatment of animals in their care. The large-scale removal of animals from Schooly's home indicates a serious neglect issue that authorities felt required strong legal action to address.

The details

In September 2024, Oakland County Animal Control officers responded to a welfare check at Schooly's home in Pontiac and discovered 29 dogs and 8 cats living in poor conditions that required immediate removal. One cat was euthanized due to its condition. Schooly, who was the president of a local dog rescue, relinquished ownership of the pets, but was allowed to retain 4 dogs that will now be put up for adoption.

  • On September 27, 2024, Oakland County Animal Control officers responded to a welfare check at Schooly's home.
  • In November 2024, Schooly was charged with animal neglect.
  • In December 2025, Schooly was convicted of animal neglect.
  • On February 11, 2026, Schooly was sentenced to 92 days in jail and 2 years' probation.

The players

Karmen Alletia Schooly

A Michigan woman convicted of animal neglect after 37 dogs and cats were removed from her home, where she was the president of Tri-County Dog Rescue.

Oakland County Animal Control

The agency that responded to the welfare check at Schooly's home and removed the 37 animals living in poor conditions.

Karen D. McDonald

The Oakland County Prosecutor who stated that Schooly fell well short of the standard for humane animal treatment.

Bob Gatt

The manager of the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center, who said the sentencing reinforces consequences for animal neglect.

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What they’re saying

“Every person has an obligation to treat animals in their care humanely. Karmen Schooly fell well short of that standard and this sentence holds her accountable.”

— Karen D. McDonald, Oakland County Prosecutor (cbsnews.com)

“This sentencing reinforces that animal neglect carries real consequences. Our team removed these animals from dangerous conditions and gave them the care and protection they deserved.”

— Bob Gatt, Manager, Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The 4 dogs that Schooly was allowed to retain will now be put up for adoption after her sentencing.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of holding pet owners accountable for providing humane care to animals in their custody. The large-scale removal of animals from Schooly's home and her subsequent conviction and sentencing send a strong message that animal neglect will not be tolerated.