MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
Twenty-four dogs have been removed from what an area animal rescue described as a severe hoarding situation in Abbyville and are now receiving care through several shelters and rescue organizations across central Kansas.
Melissa Gutierrez of Redemption Animal Rescue said it worked with the Reno County Sheriff's Office and Hutchinson Animal Shelter on Thursday to remove the dogs from a small trailer where they had reportedly been living in unsanitary conditions.'
According to Gutierrez, the trailer contained fleas, feces, and urine. The dogs were heavily infested with fleas, and some were experiencing hair loss after persistent scratching.
The rescue said the dogs had also reportedly received little or no previous veterinary care, including vaccinations or spay and neuter procedures.
Following their removal, the dogs were given flea baths and treatment. Redemption Animal Rescue said the dogs are now flea-free, although some continue to scratch after experiencing prolonged flea infestations.
Because of the number of animals involved, the 24 dogs were divided among five organizations:
- Redemption Animal Rescue — four dogs
- Pratt Area Humane Society — four dogs
- Friends of Animals Rice County — three dogs
- Golden Belt Humane Society in Great Bend — six dogs
- Kingman County Humane Society — six dogs
- Hutchinson Animal Shelter — one dog
Redemption Animal Rescue took in four female dogs from the group. The organization said all four will require veterinary examinations, vaccinations, deworming, spaying and flea, tick and heartworm prevention. One of the dogs will also need additional treatment for a skin condition.
The rescue estimates the initial veterinary expenses at a minimum of $200 per dog, or more than $800 for the four animals in its care.
Redemption Animal Rescue is seeking donations to help cover those expenses as the dogs begin receiving veterinary care and recovering from the conditions in which they had been living.
No information was immediately provided about whether authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the dogs or whether any citations or criminal charges are expected.
For more information on Redemption Animal Rescue or how to help with the care of these animals, visit their Facebook page or website.