Upstate, New York Man Accused of Abusing 54 Golden Retrievers

A welfare check turned up a heartbreaking scene in Upstate, New York.

55 Dogs Rescued from Deplorable Conditions in Upstate, NY

On July 7th, 2025, the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office was called out to do a welfare check at a residence at 185 Paisley Road in the town of Milton, NY.

When they arrived on the scene, according to a press release, the officers report that 54 golden retrievers and one chihuahua were observed in "deplorable conditions."

The statement, posted to the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office Facebook page details that the "animals were allegedly encrusted with dog feces and urine."

The 55 dogs were then voluntarily surrendered to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter. There, they were "evaluated and provided appropriate treatment."

Milton, New York Man Charged With 55 Misdemeanors

According to the press release from the Saratoga County Sheriff's Office, 52-year-old Matthew Martone was arrested at the residence where the welfare check was called into.

Martone was arrested on 55 counts of "overdriving, torturing and injuring animals" which are considered class A misdemeanors.

The press release states:

Martone is accused of keeping 54 golden retrievers and one chihuahua in deplorable conditions at his residence and of allowing them to be unjustifiably injured as a result.

The Saratoga County Sheriff's Office adds "The arrest was the culmination of a lengthy investigation involving the Sheriff's Office, the Town of Milton building inspector and animal control, and the Saratoga County Animal Shelter. "

The house on Paisley Road was later condemned by the town. Martone was released on appearance tickets "pending further proceedings in the Milton Town Court."

5 Pups Saved from NYC Hoarding House Available for Adoption in Hudson Valley

In other rescue news, CARE of DC in Wappingers Falls has some good news regarding a previous rescue.

Back in June, CARE of DC stepped in to take in a handful of dogs and puppies that were saved from a hoarding situation in Brooklyn.

READ MORE: 5 Puppies Saved From NYC Ready For Adoption in the HV

5 of the puppies rescued have gotten a full bill of health and are ready to find their forever homes.

The puppies, named Thor, Zeus, Titan, Achilles and Athena, are currently up for adoption at CAREOFDC.org.