WARNING: Images and videos might be disturbing to some readers.
The Humane Society of Washington County in Maryland took in around 817 pets in 2020. Now, in only one day, they brought in about 12% of that number. They rescued 112 dogs and cats from an unsanitary household where their grooming needs were clearly neglected.
Thanks to the kind donations of supportive dog lovers, all these scared pets are finally getting the care they need. It has been a difficult process, but soon they will be ready to find their forever homes.
A House of Horrors
Someone first alerted the humane society of an unsanitary home housing at least 25 dogs. Little did anyone know, the situation was much worse than that. When officials saw that there were 91 dogs and 21 cats in the house and in outdoor kennels, they couldn’t believe their eyes. It was one of the most extreme hoarding situations rescue staff had ever seen.
“They were living in their own feces and urine. They’re all covered in feces and urine,” said Field Service Director Crystal Mowery. “There’s no way to ever know why someone would allow this to happen.”
The owners of the home willingly surrendered all the dogs and cats. Yet, since there were more than anticipated, officials couldn’t remove them from the premises immediately. They had to return the next day to get every dog and cat out of there.
Most of the animals seemed well-fed, but their grooming needs weren’t cared for. Many dogs had overgrown nails, and the cats were infested with fleas. Some dogs barked and greeted the shelter staff in video footage, but others cowered in the corner and tried to sleep amid the chaos. This situation is still being investigated.
Dog Lovers Work Together
Luckily, all the dogs are on a path to a better life now. They’re currently receiving medical and grooming care, but it’s expected that medical expenses will reach $30,000. As if on cue, lots of dog lovers rushed in to help.
“When we put out the plea that we needed emergency donations to help these animals, people really showed up,” said the development and communications manager Noel Fridgen. “These donations will go towards the direct care of these animals. So that involves the vaccinations, spaying and neutering, microchipping, and then other more extensive care that some may need.”
Soon, the shelter will be looking for foster homes and forever homes for all these dogs and cats. Yet, they also want to remind the public that there are already lots of animals up for adoption. Instead of waiting for these furry friends to become available, adopters are encouraged to meet with some of the already adoptable dogs and cats. Also, more donations are always needed too!
H/T: localdvm.com
Featured Image: @hswcmd/Facebook
Toledo, United States.
