More than 40 dogs were discovered Thursday (May 8) in distressing conditions at a property in Broadway after their owner passed away, prompting an urgent response from the Rockingham-Harrisonburg SPCA. The organization managed to rescue 15 of the most severely ill and injured dogs, many of which were suffering from issues like mange, internal parasites, and other untreated medical conditions.
RHSPCA Executive Director Huck Nawaz described the dogs' state as dire, highlighting significant neglect and a lack of medical care. “We’re still evaluating their needs as they come into our care,” he said, noting that the situation is far from over.
The SPCA plans to continue rescue efforts in the coming weeks to remove the remaining dogs from the property. Due to limited space at the shelter, the organization is relying on community support through foster homes to house the animals, many of which require ongoing medical treatment and are even pregnant. “We really need foster families and donations to get these animals the help they deserve,”Nawaz added.
The large-scale rescue has placed a heavy strain on the RHSPCA's resources, depleting its emergency medical fund, the Have a Heart Fund, which was only recently replenished through a local fundraiser. The organization is now urgently calling for both foster volunteers and financial contributions to cover medical costs and care for the rescued dogs. Those willing to help can visit the RHSPCA website to get involved.
SOURCE: WHSV3