Animal welfare agencies rescued 52 dogs and cats from a hoarding and breeding operation in Flowery Branch.
The Humane Society of Northeast Georgia (HSNEGA) and Hall County Animal Services jointly conducted the rescue. The animals range in age from three days to eight years old. Their owner left them behind while fleeing with over 150 other dogs and cats, a Humane Society press release states.
The animals suffered varying degrees of neglect. The Humane Society’s medical team is treating them for illness and infection. Most of the cats have upper respiratory infections. Two cats, which were pregnant when rescued, are in foster care until they give birth. All of the animals are receiving preventative treatment and will be spayed or neutered before becoming available for adoption.
HSNEGA says the animals will be ready to adopt in the coming days or weeks, depending on their medical needs.
A ‘lifetime of neglect’
“It’s evident that all of these animals have survived a lifetime of neglect while their owner profited from cruelty,” says HSNEGA President and CEO Allison Mayfield. “Despite how they have been treated, they are eager for human interaction and affection. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to help end this cycle of cruelty and focus on the next, better chapter of their lives.”
Mayfield expressed appreciation for the partnership with Hall County Animal Services and the foster families who took in some of the rescued animals. She also thanked Angel’s Pet Grooming which spent two full days bathing and shaving animals with the most severe fur issues.
“Without our network of supporters, we would be unable to step up and change the course of these innocent lives,” she says.
HSNEGA urges future pet owners to consider adopting a pet before buying from breeders or pet stores. Those who do buy their pets should seek out responsible breeders who take care of their animals and adhere to standards established by The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
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For updated information on the rescued animals, follow the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia on social media.
