MAUSTON, Wis. — In the largest animal neglect case anyone in these parts can remember, nearly 400 animals were rescued. Beginning Friday, authorities took in five horses, 81 dogs, 19 puppies, 136 chickens, 35 goats, and 126 rabbits. Juneau County Sheriff Andrew Zobal said many of the animals needed medical attention. Animal shelters were enlisted to help from as far away as LaCrosse and Trempealeau, 70 miles west; Shawno, 150 miles northeast; and Milwaukee 140 miles east. Arrested were Dean Lewerenz, 62, and Amy Thomas, 48. Their small farm is near Elroy in the western reaches of the county. Authorities were alerted to the situation Friday because animals were loose in the area of 2720 North Brown Road, which is a rural Elroy address.
