A Webster City man has been charged with animal neglect after a search warrant for his home revealed multiple animals that appeared to be neglected.

The charge against John Alan Harper, 58, of 915 High Street, is a simple misdemeanor, according to a media release from Webster City Acting Police Chief Eric McKinley.

“On March 11, 2025, an animal complaint was made regarding the residence of 915 High Street. I called the owner who is John Harper for a welfare check on the

animals. He denied me access to his residence and referred me to the local vet’s office for the welfare of his animals,” the criminal complaint filed by Webster City Police Officer Ryan Basinger states.

“The vet’s office advised the dogs were up to date on vaccinations and appeared to be a healthy weight. I later spoke with the reporting party who informed me multiple dogs lived without food or water and in their own feces and urine.

“I applied for and was granted a search warrant for the welfare of the animals. I executed the warrant on 3/20/2025 at 08:35 hours. The building was cleared and the local vet was called.

“The vet arrived on scene and deemed the building to be unlivable and unsanitary for the animals.

“As a result of the determination 11 dogs were seized by the Animal Rescue League.”

Harper posted a $300 cash bond and was released.

WCPD was assisted by the Animal Rescue League of Iowa, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the Hamilton County Attorney’s Office, and the Webster City Veterinary Clinic.