STONE COUNTY, Mo. – 55 dogs are on their way to the Humane Society’s Macklind headquarters after being rescued in freezing temperatures, with an additional 20 animals dead.
According to a press release, a concerned resident informed the Humane Society of Missouri’s Animal Cruelty Task Force on Friday morning about the dangerous condition the animals were in, as well as the fact that they were outside in subfreezing temperatures.
When crews arrived, the temperature was in the teens. The dogs were without food, water, or shelter. Adult dogs were chained and tied to fences or trees, and the younger dogs were left in an outdoor pen.
Surrounding the animals were 15 dead dogs and five dead goats. It is unknown at this time if the animals died due to starvation or froze to death. Necropsies will be performed to determine the cause.
“The fact that these animals have had to suffer and that so many animals died from living without food or shelter is devastating,” Kathy Warnick, HSMO president, said. “Now that they are safe, we hope we can count on the community’s support as we do everything in our power to care for these dogs and give them a second chance at a happier life.”
The owner of the property gave up custody of the dogs and was arrested by the Stone County Sheriff’s office.
The dogs that were rescued are being taken to St. Louis to be evaluated and receive treatment. Dogs will be available for adoption as they recover medically and behaviorally, on a case-by-case basis.
In the meantime, the Humane Society asks the public for donations to give the animals a comfortable recovery. To make a donation, click here.
