HSMO Gains Custody of Dogs from February’s Newton County Rescue

On March 14, the Humane Society of Missouri (HSMO) was awarded custody of the 57 dogs rescued from horrific conditions in Newton County on Feb. 1, 2022. The dogs rescued included Wheaten Terriers, Shar Pei, Maltese, and other designer mixes.

Some of these dogs will be transferred to breed-specific rescue organizations and others will be made available for adoption in the coming weeks. The animals will be individually evaluated on their medical and social wellness and will be made adoptable on a case-by-case basis.

While on the property, HSMO’s Animal Cruelty Task Force (ACT) found the dogs in disturbing and inhumane conditions, along with a variety of deceased animals, and a burn pile where it was evident that animal remains had been disposed of. The surviving dogs were brought to HSMO’s St. Louis City headquarters where they underwent triage to assess their physical conditions and began socialization procedures due to their fearful behavior.

Having full custody of the animals, HSMO will be able to perform necessary and life-saving surgical procedures on the dogs who need it, perform spay and neuter surgeries, and make the dogs available for adoption after their rehabilitation. To help provide support, the public can click here to support the treatment, care, and rehabilitation of these animals.

“This was our first large-scale rescue of the year, and this the best outcome possible for these poor dogs,” said Kathy Warnick, president of the Humane Society of Missouri. “These abused animals have been through so much and lived in absolutely horrible conditions. We’re thankful that we can provide them with compassionate, state-of-the-art veterinary care and give them a second chance at a brighter future.”

To report an animal who may be in danger or is suffering from neglect or abuse, call the local police and the Humane Society of Missouri’s Animal Cruelty Hotline at 314-647-4400.