Authorities seized five dogs from a Canandaigua home and charged two residents following an animal cruelty investigation.
Ruth M. Barnhart, 40, and Brian D. Ogdenski, 27, both of 5544 Purdy Road, were arrested March 4 and charged with aggravated animal cruelty, a felony, and endangering the welfare of a child.
The investigation began after an animal neglect complaint was reported Feb. 18, 2025, at the Purdy Road residence in the Town of Canandaigua.
The Ontario County Humane Society led the investigation with assistance from the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office and Ontario County Probation.
Officials said a 12-year-old boy was living at the residence, prompting an additional investigation by Child Protective Services.
During the investigation, authorities seized five dogs, including hound and Cane Corso mixes. One dog was found roaming free while the others were confined in metal cages.
Town of Canandaigua code enforcement officials determined the home was uninhabitable.
All five dogs were transported to the Ontario County Humane Society shelter for evaluation and treatment. Initial assessments found all were underweight, including two that were severely emaciated and one suffering from bed sores.
The animals are currently receiving ongoing medical care.
Barnhart and Ogdenski were issued appearance tickets and are scheduled to appear in Canandaigua Town Court at a later date.
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