The poor animals were found caged in miserable conditions!
On Wednesday, a Humane Rescue Alliance investigation into suspected animal cruelty led to the rescue of 36 dogs and 6 rabbits from Southeast D.C.
Photo courtesy of Humane Rescue Alliance
The animals included 33 Great Danes, 1 Doberman, 1 pit-bull-type dog, and 1 Chihuahua. They were discovered in the 2900 block of Branch Avenue in Southeast D.C. after the HRA Animal Control Investigation received an anonymous tip from a concerned citizen. The Humane Law Enforcement officers and the HRA found the animals in “extremely unsafe and unsanitary conditions,” as said in a news release later.
"In many instances, multiple Great Danes were confined to one small cage, forced to live amongst their own waste and sleep on a concrete floor," the release continues. "Blood and feces covered the walls. The animals did not have access to food or water. The smell of ammonia and feces overwhelmed the rescuers. HLE officers uncovered evidence relating to the sale of animals and at least one of the Great Danes is suspected to be pregnant. They also discovered the remains of several puppies in a mini refrigerator.”
"Your lungs start to burn and your eyes water.You've got to take multiple trips out to get fresh air. That was the dogs 24/7," said Dan D'Eramo from the HRA.
“The conditions in which these animals were forced to live in is gut-wrenching,” said Chris Schindler, vice president of field services at the Humane Rescue Alliance. “I am relieved they are now safe and in the hands of people who will provide them with the love and proper care they need and deserve, thanks to the community members who reported the neglect and our team who conducted a thorough investigation.”
For the time being, the animals are kept under care in undisclosed locations and "will be thoroughly examined by a veterinarian."
If you would like to contribute toward the wellbeing of these poor animals and others rescued by HRA, you can donate here.