Hunterdon County law enforcement seized 45 animals rescued from an Annandale home Monday while serving a warrant for animal cruelty allegations.

News 12 has learned that the owner of that property worked as the president of an animal rescue in Hunterdon County.

The Hunterdon County Prosecutor’s Office says the animals were taken from a house on Sidney Road. Property tax records list the owner of the house as Geralyn Serino. According to IRS records, Serino is or was the president of Lost Paws Animal Rescue in Hunterdon County.

Shelters around the area are now treating the animals, including Tabby’s Place in Ringoes.

“It is very difficult seeing cats in these conditions, particularly from an organization that was set up to help cats in this type of situation,” said Director of Operations Danielle Rice.

Rice’s team at Tabby’s Place took in 10 of those cats on Monday morning. In all, 45 animals were seized - 37 cats and eight dogs. Seven of them were taken to the vet immediately. The cats at Tabby’s Place are improving, but it will take time to ready them for adoption.

“These cats are still under quarantine,” Rice said. “We’re treating them for upper respiratory infections, diarrhea, malnutrition and dehydration.”

Lost Paws did not respond to an email inquiry from News 12. The Prosecutor’s Office says this is an active investigation but had no further comment.