'Urgent rescue': 10 puppies, dogs pulled from Florida hoarding situation need your help

Photo by humanebroward | Instagram

An overwhelming odor report from a concerned neighbor turned into the discovery of 10 Shih-tzu/Yorkie mixes ranging in age from 6 months to 4 years living in horrible hoarding conditions on Tuesday. Police seized the puppies, bringing them all to the Humane Society of Broward County (HSBC) for care and rehabilitation — now, they're asking for the public's help in finding caring fur-ever homes.

"All the dogs are suffering severe skin infections and matted fur. Some needed to be completely shaved while under anesthesia in order to be treated." a post shared by HSBC on Instagram reads, in part, accompanied by a carousel of the sad and scared furry faces now in their care.
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"These dogs will have to be on daily medications — some of them for life. This is a cost potential adopters should be aware of. These sweet souls are not potty-trained, but are friendly and are learning to trust, " the post continues, letting everyone know that they'll be going up for adoption on Friday, June 2nd.

​The Humane Society of Broward County hopes to find loving homes local to the area. For those interested in adopting, they ask that you first complete a pre-adoption application on their website, www.humanebroward.com.

Once complete, you can stop by their kennels between 11 am and 6 pm daily, located at 2070 Griffin Road in Fort Lauderdale. Those with questions about these pups in need of a fur-ever home are encouraged to call 954-989-3977 using extension 6 prior to their visit.

If you're unable to adopt but are still wanting to make a difference in these resilient dogs' lives, HSBC hopes that you will consider making a donation to their care through the donate page on their website here.

Whether or not the person who owned and neglected these dogs was charged with a crime is unknown; however, they could potentially find themselves paying for it. According to Florida Statute 828.13, neglect of an animal is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor and can result in a fine of up to $5,000, as well as possible imprisonment.

The Humane Society of Broward County is a private, non-profit organization that is supported by people and companies who want to make a difference in the lives of homeless animals. The shelter is not affiliated with any local or national group with a similar name and does not receive tax dollars to operate. Founded in 1944, HSBC offers pet adoption, surrender prevention, educational presentations, and more to the public.
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Looking for affordable spay and neuter services in Tampa Bay? Click here to learn about the free spay and neuter event coming to Hillsborough County soon.
Article by Rachael Volpe