Animal Control officers removed 52 dogs from a hoarding situation at a property in Broadway last week.
The Rockingham Harrisonburg SPCA (RHSPCA) responded to a call from Animal Control officers on May 8. According to RHSPCA Director of Engagement Aaron Cleveland, the initial report indicated “at least 40 animals” on the property.
Upon arrival, RHSPCA staff worked with local animal control agencies to remove 17 dogs from the property. Dogs with the most pressing medical needs were prioritized for removal from the property. The rescue operation continued through the weekend.
An additional 27 dogs were removed on Friday and brought to safety, followed by an another eight dogs on Sunday.
“Whenever a dog enters our care, they are given an identification number and a medical evaluation. This ensures each animal receives appropriate treatment and tracking. These dogs were no exception, even under these extraordinary circumstances,” Cleveland said.
RHSPCA Executive Director Huck Nawaz said the organization was caring for 97 dogs until last Thursday and now have 150 in their care.
“It has been a very busy few days for our volunteers and staff. We are grateful for the community’s support and are ensuring every animal receives the care and attention they need. The dogs will receive a comprehensive medical and behavioral assessment and we will work with rescue partners and local adopters to find loving homes for them,” Nawaz said.
The RHSPCA secured a location to temporarily house the dogs and is actively working to place them in foster homes.
“These dogs will continue to receive the medical attention, housing and enrichment they need as we work to find them permanent, loving homes,” Cleveland.
The SPCA’s greatest need right now is financial support from the community to cover medical costs, dog crates and other necessary supplies.
“Our incredible staff and volunteers have gone above and beyond to meet the increased needs of these dogs. From fostering and transporting to assisting with medical processing, they continue to show what makes this
community so special,” Cleveland said.
To support the RHSPCA’s efforts or to make a donation online to Emergency Dog Rescue in Broadway.
To donate supplies for the dogs, the SPCA’s Amazon wishlist is available online.
The Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA is dedicated to preventing pet homelessness and animal suffering through adoption, education, and advocacy. Serving more than 2,500 animals each year, the RHSPCA provides crucial shelter, foster and adoption programs, as well as community cat vouchers for spaying and neutering outdoor cats. In the past five years, RHSPCA has decreased euthanasia rates by 678 percent, increased adoptions by 214 percent and supported the sterilization of more than 2,000 community cats.
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Rebecca Barnabi
