Humane Society Rescues 114 Dogs from NC Puppy Mill
Thursday, May 25, 2023
One week ago, the Humane Society of the United States assisted the Hertford County Sheriff’s Office in rescuing 114 dogs from alleged cruelty at a breeding operation in North Carolina. Conditions on the property were filthy, hazardous and consistent with egregious neglect. Veterinarians immediately noted that some of the dogs were severely emaciated, and some were so dehydrated that they required subcutaneous fluids on-scene.
The dogs have embarked on their long road to recovery, starting with much-needed veterinary care in a comfortable, safe environment. (PHOTOS).
Veterinarians confirmed that multiple dogs have pellets embedded in their skin, presumably from being shot with a pellet gun.
Diagnostic testing and in-depth veterinary exams have revealed that several dogs are suffering from sarcoptic mange, which causes intense itching, often accompanied by hair loss and secondary infections due to broken, inflamed skin. If untreated, this condition can be fatal, particularly in overcrowded, poor environmental conditions much like we saw on-scene.
Many of the dogs have heartworm, which is a preventable but life-threatening condition known to be difficult, time-consuming and expensive to treat. Tick-born illnesses including Ehrlichia and Anaplasma are prevalent throughout the population, as are lice and flea infestations. Some dogs have severe dental disease, which could indicate a lack of adequate nutrition and care. The HSUS anticipates spending tens of thousands of dollars just on providing dental care and heartworm treatment to the rescued dogs.
Despite the many health challenges, responders share a sense of optimism as the dogs settle into a routine in the temporary shelter environment.
“I’ve been enjoying just watching them lay down and sleep. These dogs have been living in overcrowded conditions, struggling to get their basic needs met, like enough food and water,” said Jessica Johnson, senior director of the Humane Society of the United States’ animal rescue team. “This is probably the first time they’ve been able to eat and sleep in peace. Watching them sleep so soundly… I’m thinking it’s got to be the best nap they’ve ever had.”
A puppy (so young he hadn’t even opened his eyes), was found to be severely dehydrated, underweight, cold and lice-infested during his veterinary exam. A veterinarian administered subcutaneous fluids and an HSUS staff member took him home to bottle feed him, treat his lice infestation, and provide him with ‘round the clock care. After all he’s been through, he opened his eyes for the first time over the weekend to find himself inside a caring home. He may be strong enough to rejoin his litter eventually.
Also over the weekend, one dog gave birth to 10 puppies upon settling into her foster home with an HSUS staffer. Several more dogs are expected to give birth any day.
“It’s incredibly gratifying to get to provide the mothers with a safe, comfortable place to give birth and care for their pups, not to mention the twist of fate for the puppies who will never have to struggle to survive in those conditions,” said Laura Koivula, director of animal crimes and investigations, the Humane Society of the United States.