Marcia Anderson, 52, of Hudson, was arrested on July 16 for allegedly mistreating 14 dogs and three cats. Courtesy photo/Hudson Police Department

HUDSON – Marcia Anderson, 52, of Hudson, was taken into custody on July 16 for allegedly mistreating 14 dogs and three cats.

According to the Hudson Police Department, on May 28, officers responded to Anderson’s apartment on Burns Hill Road for a report of several dogs living in the home.

Police reportedly found both the dogs and cats crammed into a small part of the apartment, which was blanketed with an “overwhelming” stench of urine with little ventilation. Officers also allegedly observed dogs covered in urine as well as urine and feces throughout the unit.

Personnel with the Hudson Fire Department ambulance also responded to evaluate the officers who had been exposed to the poor air quality in Anderson’s apartment.

Further investigation revealed that the dogs were not current of their required vaccinations and that Anderson did not have the necessary vaccination documents.

She has been charged with 17 counts of negligent cruelty to animals.

Anderson was released on personal recognizance bail and was arraigned on July 28 in Nashua District Court.

Under state law, if convicted, she could face up to 17 years in prison and up to $34,000 in fines.