Watch CBS News

Turkeys Being Fed Dog Food Rescued By Michigan Humane Society

DETROIT (WWJ) -- The Michigan Humane Society rescued a pair of turkeys from a Detroit residence after receiving a complaint from a concerned citizen that they were not receiving proper care.

The two turkeys were brought to the MHS Rochester Hills Center for Animal Care where they received veterinary attention and care for two weeks before being transferred to a rescue partner for more specialized assistance.

They will stay there until a proper home is found, where the turkeys will be pets and not used for food.

When the MHS cruelty investigator arrived at the property in question, there were six turkeys in the yard. After speaking to the investigator, the owner agreed to relocate all of the animals. A week later, when checking back at the house, two turkeys remained.

They were being fed an improper diet of dog food, so the investigator convinced the owner to surrender the turkeys to the Michigan Humane Society for proper placement.

Because they were within the city limits, the resident was violating a city ordinance.

"The owner of the property stated that they had purchased the birds from a gas station a few weeks prior, believing they were baby chicks," MHS cruelty investigator Elise Ramsey said.

No charges are being brought against the owner because the birds were in good condition and they willingly surrendered them.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.