WJHG.COM
CALHOUN COUNTY, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – An Altha woman is behind bars facing felony charges for animal cruelty after Calhoun County deputies say they found dozens of animals living in dire conditions.
Alaqua Animal Refuge said 85 animals have been rescued and are getting treatment.
Dawn Elrod was arrested on May 3, 2026, after the sheriff’s office received reports of dead and malnourished animals on the property where she was living.
It all started in 2022 when Elrod asked for help moving animals to protect them from a fire. A Colorado rescue group, Pack 22 Alpha, and Alaqua stepped in.