Charges Filed in Superior Animal Abuse Case

Charges have been filed against a Michigan woman in connection to an animal abuse case in Superior. 

60-year-old Jennifer Vail is charged with two felony counts of mistreatment of animals. 

Vail was stopped by police last Friday. 

Police found a dead horse in the trailer, and five others that were extremely malnourished, along with three German Shepherds and two cats in the same condition. 

Since last week, two of the dogs have died. 

According to Sheila Keup with the Douglas County Humane Society, the rest of the animals are getting better everyday. 

The horses had thrush and abscesses in their hooves. That work has been taken care of.  Routine dental work was done on the horses to get them to gain weight. They are also on a slow re-feeding program since they were so thin. 

Many of the animals had open sore wounds. 

Keup believes this isn’t something that happened while the animals were in the trailer. She believes they were in bad shape before Vail left Michigan. 

Vail told authorities she was traveling from Michigan to California with the animals. 

The animals are now in the care of the Douglas County Humane Society and being held in a secure location. 

Due to the unexpected take-in, the Douglas County Humane Society is seeking donations to help with the care of the animals.  Vet wrap, gauze, hay, Purina Strategy and Senior for the horses,  dog food and cat food are needed.  Monetary donations would also be appreciated. 

Dan’s Feed Bin in Superior is offering discounts to those buying donation items.  Also, if you buy something large, such as hay, and can’t haul it, they will bring it out to the shelter for you.  

If you wish to donate, you can drop off items or donations at 338 Moccasin Mike Road or call 715-398-6784. 

Vail will be back on court on November 30. 

Bail was set at $2,500.  Vail was also ordered to not have possession of any animals.