Several Treated After Cortland County Hazmat Incident

Several people were taken to a hospital following a hazardous materials incident at an animal shelter in Cortlandville.

Emergency crews were called to the Cortland Community SPCA facility on McLean Road just after 8:30 a.m. May 11.

Authorities say a shelter employee mixed lyme and sulphur dip with bleach, causing a chemical reaction. Some people who were nearby experienced difficulty breathing.

Those who reported breathing problems were transported to Cortland Regional Medical Center.

Dozens of dogs and cats in the shelter were being evaluated by veterinarians.

Because of possible contamination, all of the facility's food and animal supplies were ordered discarded.

The shelter has an urgent need for dog and cat food, along with leashes, toys, towels and blankets.

Donations may be dropped off at the Cortlandville Fire Station or at the Cortland Tractor Supply store on Route 13.