Starving Mastiffs Rescued

UPDATE (August 6, 2018): Humane Society of Missouri awarded permanent custody of 6 Mastiffs rescued from starvation in Lawrence County

Today, the Humane Society of Missouri Animal Cruelty Task Force was awarded permanent custody of six adult Mastiff dogs rescued July 12, 2018 from a property in Aurora, Mo. in Lawrence County in southwest Missouri.

“We are very pleased to have worked with the Aurora Police Department and the Lawrence County Prosecutor to alleviate the suffering of these dogs,” said Kathy Warnick, president of the Humane Society of Missouri. “And, we thank the judge for making a decision that will ensure a good future for each of them.”

The dogs are continuing their recovery which may take several additional weeks. They will be made available for adoption as soon as each one is healthy. An application process will be announced in the near future. Donations to provide for the animals’ care may be made at www.hsmo.org or by calling 314-951-1542.

Animals found with no food or water in filthy conditions

The dogs will be transported to the Humane Society of Missouri’s Best Buddy Pet Center in Maryland Heights for treatment and care.

The animals were removed from the property under a warrant obtained by the Aurora Police Department. The investigation is ongoing to determine if criminal charges are warranted. A disposition to determine permanent custody of the dogs will be held at 9 a.m., Monday, August 6, 2018 at the Lawrence County Courthouse in Mount Vernon, Mo.

“We are proud we can be a resource to cities like Aurora when multiple animals need extraordinary care,” said Kathy Warnick, president of the Humane Society of Missouri. “Our Animal Cruelty Task Force and shelter veterinary and animal care staff will do the utmost to help these dogs make a full recovery.”