Oxford flat found to have 12 dogs and lizard abandoned

Neighbours had complained to Oxford City Council about concerns of the smell from the flat after the tenant moved out to turn it into a makeshift kennel.

The council’s anti-social behaviour team was subsequently deployed and able to carry out the rescue operation.

The flat was in a filthy condition (Image: Oxford City Council)

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Councillor Shaista Aziz, cabinet member for safer communities, said: “These animals were being held in appalling conditions and were severely neglected.

“This was more than just anti-social behaviour, it was inhumane, and I’d like to thank everyone involved in the rescue especially residents who first raised concerns.”

Video footage of a raid of the house showed the filthy conditions in which the animals were being kept and a strong stench that was overwhelming.

It emerged that the animals were living in the flat with no supervision, with someone coming by once a week to put down piles of dry food.

The animals will be looked after by the RSPCA until new homes can be found for them or they can be returned to their neighbours.

Councillor Aziz added: “We take reports of anti-social behaviour seriously, and take action whenever we can.

"We have strong partnerships to help tackle issues and make sure the right action is taken as quickly as possible. Everyone has the right to live in clean, safe neighbourhoods.”

The council has said it is unable to confirm the exact location of the property when asked by the Oxford Mail.