Newton Abbot, Devon – Rescuers removed 65 dogs from a cramped apartment after their owner could no longer manage their care.
A Heartbreaking Hoard Emerges
A Heartbreaking Hoard Emerges (Image Credits: Flickr)
Teams discovered 65 dogs crammed into one flat, living amid extreme filth and neglect. The animals included a mix of chihuahuas, dachshunds, and poodles, ranging from two-week-old puppies to adults. Some carried massive worm burdens, with parasites even emerging from puppies’ noses – a rare and alarming sign. Many had never experienced grass or open space, highlighting the severity of their confinement.
The owner, a woman described as mentally ill and disabled, had accumulated the dogs without breeding intentions. She loved the animals deeply but became completely overwhelmed by their numbers and needs. This situation underscored a familiar challenge in the southwest, often termed a hoarding case. Authorities acted swiftly once her struggles became evident.
Joint Forces Mobilize for Rescue
The RSPCA partnered with Margaret Green Animal Rescue, a Dorset-based charity founded in 1965, to execute the operation. Margaret Green took in 30 of the dogs, transporting them to centers in Wareham, Blandford, and Tavistock. Volunteers stood ready, and a vet remained on site for nearly four hours to conduct initial assessments. Two dogs arrived heavily pregnant, adding urgency to the effort.
Nigel Mason, chief executive of Margaret Green, explained the collaboration. “We work very closely with the RSPCA in the southwest because the southwest is quite well known for these situations, sadly what we would call hoarding situations,” he said. The owner cooperated fully, recognizing she needed help. This allowed the dogs to reach safety without resistance.
Treatment and Tender Care Underway
Upon arrival, staff prioritized health checks, vaccinations, and thorough bathing. Volunteers provided round-the-clock attention for the youngest puppies, who remained frightened and traumatized. Despite their ordeal, none showed aggression; many began interacting warmly with caregivers. The charity captured moments of the dogs discovering grass for the first time, dashing about in excitement.
Mason noted the initial state: “They’re all pretty filthy I have to say, and we’ve had volunteers with them over the last few days. They’ve got some massive worm burdens.” He emphasized compassion for all involved: “It’s fair to say the owner loved all the dogs but couldn’t care for that many and it was a trauma for her to have to lose them but she did the right thing.”
Rehoming on Horizon Amid Resource Strain
The dogs now undergo isolation periods to ensure medical clearance and psychological readiness. Rehoming will follow once they stabilize, likely in a few weeks. The operation has cost the charity around £20,000 for veterinary care, food, and rehabilitation. Margaret Green urged patience from the public, warning against premature adoption inquiries.
Key challenges in such rescues include:
- Severe parasite infestations requiring immediate treatment.
- Trauma from lifelong confinement, needing gradual socialization.
- Pregnancies and neonatal care demanding constant monitoring.
- Financial burdens on already stretched shelters.
- Preventing impulsive adoptions that could harm recovery.
Mason reinforced: “What we don’t want is people ringing the centre trying to reserve puppies. They need to be in isolation and need to make sure their medicals are fine.”
- 65 dogs rescued from one Devon flat; 30 now at Dorset centers.
- Owner overwhelmed but cooperative; no prosecution mentioned.
- Full recovery expected, with rehoming soon – donations aid the process.
This rescue demonstrates the vital role of dedicated charities in crisis situations, turning despair into hope for vulnerable animals. As these dogs take their first steps toward new lives, the story reminds us of responsible pet ownership’s importance. What do you think about these hoarding cases? Tell us in the comments.
