Renegade Paws rescued 26 dogs from, what witnesses described as both a puppy mill and hoarding situation, last Friday. Cody Shelley, a board member, says these animals were essentially abandoned and left outdoors for their entire life.
“All 26 animals that came in were in terrible condition we don’t know if they ever saw a veterinarian. When our volunteers arrived we learned there were 26 dogs on the property. Living in their own excrement and each other’s,” said Shelley.
They say the animals will need medical care that will add up to thousands of dollars. Two dozen of them have heartworms which need to be treated since that can result in death.
“On top of being malnourished underfed, not spayed, are also going to be treated for heartworm disease.”
Renegade was originally alerted about this after receiving a call that an elderly family was breeding animals that they could no longer care for. Once they get the treatment they need--which Renegade will have to pay for--the dogs will be available to be adopted. “When you foster with a rescue everything is paid for and you are fully supported,” Shelley said. As far as finding homes, Shelley says “We match you with the dog that is best for your household. You got cats, you got kids, we’ll take that into account. We’re gonna help you find the best fit for you and your lifestyle and there is a dog for everybody in this community.”
Anybody interested in fostering some of the dogs rescued can submit an application online. However, the rescue says they are most desperately in need of funds to support the medical care of the over two dozen dogs rescued. The organization asks that, if you were moved by this story, to please donate to help these dogs here.
(Thanks to WSAV for this story.)