The HSUS Assists in Rescuing Dogs From Hoarding Situation

January 24, 2008

GABBS, Nev. – The Humane Society of the United States deployed to assist in a hoarding case of a woman whose mother passed away and left 149 dogs. Many did not have water and had digestive issues that indicated they had gone through long periods of time without food or water.

"This type of hoarding case happens all over the country," said Jeff Eyre, director of disaster field operations at The HSUS. "The person's intentions might have started off as good ones, but she soon had way more animals than she could care for properly."

Local rescue groups pulled together during the last month to help, but more resources were needed. The HSUS answered the call, with its expert handlers and equipment, transporting 52 dogs to shelters in Nevada and California on Wednesday. Most of the dogs were Lab mixes, border collies and other large mixed breed dogs, said Paul Bruce, a program coordinator from The HSUS.

Some of the animals were very shy when first approached. But by the time they got to the shelters, there was already a noticeable change. "There was one I am calling Thumper. I heard his tail thumping on the inside of the crate as we pulled up to one of the shelters," Eyre said.

Often in these types of cases, we are called in too late. But these animals are fortunate that help arrived in time, Bruce said. "These animals have been through a traumatic experience, but the psyche of an animal is phenomenal and I feel these animals will rebound quickly," he said. "Now they'll get the chance to go to permanent, loving, homes."

In 2007, The HSUS responded to dozens of hoarding and cruelty situations nationwide.

The animals from this case can be found at the Nevada Humane Society, Yerington Animal Shelter, Best Friends Animal Society, the Sacramento SPCA and Contra Costa County Animal Services.

A photo is available at humanesociety.org

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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 10.5 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education, and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the Web at humanesociety.org.