200 animals seized from farm | Urban Wildlife

LINCOLN COUNTY - Authorities in Lincoln County removed more than 200 animals from a farm in Pumpkin Center on Tuesday.

Officials with Lincoln County Animal Services said they received numerous complaints from neighbors about animals at Charlie Skipper's farm that were not properly taken care. 

Following a long investigation, workers with the LCAS and Lincoln County Emergency Services went to Skipper's farm Tuesday morning and they started taking away his dogs, chickens, pigs and horses.

"I'll miss 'em, I'll definitely miss 'em," Skipper said.

He had been warned several times according to authorities.

Neighbors complained about the smell and many worried the animals weren't getting enough food.

During the seizure, officials found barrels of old corn chips and a trailer full of discarded bread in which Skipper claims he fed to the animals.

Animal Services Chief Jack Kerley said this type of food is not sufficient for animals.

"It doesn't have the vitamins and mineral content in it," Kerley said.

Finding the animals on the farm wasn't hard, but it was extremely difficult catching some of them.  The goats and rams took off running, and the hogs just flopped onto the ground.

Skipper has not been charged with anything at this time. 

He admitted that his animals need better care.

"I probably got too many at this point to take care of," Skipper said.

He said he did the best to care for them as long as he did, but officials said that wasn't good enough.

The animals were taken to several locations in Lincoln County.

Officials say because of tight budgets, they are asking for help from the public.  They specifically need goat food, dog food and hay.  Donations may be dropped off at the Pumpkin Center Fire Station located at 2911 Lee Lawing Road in Lincolnton.  If you would like to make a donation, call 704-735-4271.