USPS worker hoards over 90 animals she collected on her mail route

HOBE SOUND, Fla. (NBC, KYMA) - Martin County, Florida deputies rescued dozens of cats and dogs from what the sheriff calls the county's worst animal hoarding case.

Investigators were looking into reports that an elderly USPS worker was collecting feral cats along her mail route when they discovered the animals inside her Stuart home.

Sheriff John Budensiek says investigators found 77-year-old Gail Giustino's home in horrible conditions.

80 cats and 12 dogs were rushed to the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast.

"Their crates were caked with feces, the cats drank for 15 minutes straight," said one Humane Society employee.

Not only did the 80 cats arrive severely dehydrated, most are missing fur, likely from stress induced over grooming.

The 12 dogs are suffering from dental disease and three are quarantined with kennel cough.

The shelter says at least half are friendly and highly adoptable but before the animals can go to new homes, the shelter is checking microchips to connect the animals with their owners.

MCSO says while the homeowner believes she was helping these animals, she was going about it in the wrong way.

MCSO is also working to ensure Gail Giustino receives the assistance and resources she needs.