Missouri Animal Cruelty Team Saves Over 200 Dogs from One House

The Humane Society of Missouri (HSMO) rescued over 200 dogs from one home. 

The organization’s Animal Cruelty Task Force rescued 211 dogs from a home in Christian County, Mo., on Wednesday, July 30, according to a post on its website. 

Some of the rescued canines were puppies, the society said. All of the dogs were small breeds, including Shih Tzus and Chihuahuas. 

The organization was informed of the situation through local law enforcement and negotiated with the owner to surrender the dogs. 

“It is clear that many of the dogs are malnourished and are suffering from infestations and skin issues due to neglect,” HMSO wrote. 

The dogs have been taken to the organization’s headquarters in St. Louis for treatment.

“These dogs lived in horrific conditions, and had we not intervened, it is clear that they would have continued to suffer. We are relieved that through careful negotiations we were able to rescue these animals from such a dangerous and heart-breaking situation,” said HSMO President Kathy Warnick. 

The police were notified of the situation after a citizen expressed concern, per the Springfield News-Leader.

The rescue continued on Thursday, July 31, when more animals, including cats and birds, were found in the residence, Christian County Sheriff Brad Cole told the outlet. 

It is unclear whether the homeowners, a couple will be charged. Cole told the Springfield News-Leader that the decision is up to the Christian County prosecutor. 

The human society’s Ella Frank detailed the rescue to Fox 2 Now, saying, “It started with 50, then a 100 and the numbers kept growing. By late afternoon, 80 dogs filled one of our big rescue trailers, with another 60 brought in after.”

Frank added that the home contained high ammonia levels, extreme heat and feces. 

Fox 2 Now reported that the society said it was the largest rescue in over a decade. 

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Now, HSMO is urging the community to donate towels, blankets and newspapers. The organization is also waiving certain adoption fees to accommodate the rescued dogs. 

“The size of the rescue will put a strain on the already crowded shelter, and we are asking for help from the public through donations of towels, blankets and newspapers. We are also waiving adoption fees for all dogs over 35 pounds to make room for the rescued pups,” the organization said.

The Springfield News-Leader reported that the rescued dogs will be available for adoption on a case-by-case basis.