Oakland County woman facing charges after 29 dogs, 8 cats rescued from home

OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. – A Pontiac woman has been charged following an animal cruelty and unregistered shelter investigation in September, where 37 animals were rescued from her home.

On Sept. 27, 2024, 29 dogs and eight cats were removed from Karmen Schooly’s home on Argyle Street. County animal control officers said the animals were found living in abusive and neglectful conditions.

Schooly faces a felony animal cruelty charge and a misdemeanor charge for operating an unregistered animal shelter.

“Housing dozens of animals that you can’t take care of is not a ‘rescue,’ and neglecting or abusing animals is a crime,” said Oakland County Prosecutor Karen McDonald. “I applaud Oakland County Animal Control for saving these dogs and cats from deplorable conditions.”

The Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center are caring for the 36 rescued animals; one cat had to be euthanized.