Animal hoarding has serious consequences for the physical and mental health of hoarders and their families


Mental health issues

Hoarding of inanimate objects has been linked to a variety of psychological disorders, and a significant percentage of animal hoarders are eventually institutionalized or placed under some type of protective care.    Read more....


Sanitation and environmental ammonia

Air quality in some hoarder's homes is so poor that a non-acclimated person cannot enter without protective breathing apparatus. The detrimental effects of ammonia exposure are well-known from animal studies.   Read more....


Diseases spread from animals to people (zoonoses)

A variety of diseases can be transmitted between animals and people, and some of are particular concern for those who are immunocompromised.   Read more....


Medical and public health issues

Lack of heat, lack of running water, improper nutrition, lack of personal care and hygiene, inability to maintain a sanitary household can potentially affect human health and may be particularly detrimental to the aged, minor children, or persons living with pre-existing health problems.    Read more...


Understanding self-neglect

Adults who do not care for themselves properly may be victims of self-neglect.    Read more...


Elder and child abuse

Although a long tradition of civil liberties in the US provides people with broad latitude to live as they choose, those choices are much more limited when dependent adults (elders, disabled) or children are present.    Read more...