Couple Finds 130 Chihuahuas Abandoned in Rental Home

A couple from the Lackawanna neighborhood recently discovered that their rental property, which they’ve been leasing out for the past two years, had become home to 130 chihuahuas. Upon failing to receive the usual rent payment, the couple visited the property, only to find the house empty of tenants but overflowing with small dogs.

The homeowners, who chose to remain unnamed, shared their reaction to the unexpected discovery. “When we arrived, the renters were long gone, but the house was filled with dogs running around,” they said. After feeding the dogs, the couple contacted authorities for help.

Animal Care and Protective Services soon arrived to manage the overwhelming situation. Chief Michael Bricker emphasized the community’s role in providing homes for the animals, noting the shelter’s current capacity issues. “Fosters. Adopters. We already have 300 dogs at the shelter, so these 130 that we will be adding, we’ll definitely need the public’s Support when it comes to fostering or adopting. We will make it so easy,” Bricker stated.

Unfortunately, the damage left behind is extensive, with the entire property requiring a full gut due to pet waste and odor. The situation is especially difficult for the couple, as the husband recently lost his job, and his wife is undergoing treatment for cancer.

For those interested in fostering or adopting one of the chihuahuas, Animal Care and Protective Services can be reached at 904-630-2489, or in person.

We encourage everyone thinking of getting a pet to only adopt instead of shopping and use this amazing pet adoption search tool by WildWatchers to find shelter animals near you!

Read more resources about adopting animals on One Green Planet, including 7 Reasons to Adopt Your Next Furry Best Friend, 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Adopt a Pet, and These Heartwarming Before and After Pictures of Adopted Rescue Animals Will Make Your Day! Read tips for pet adoptions and what to consider before adopting an animal.

Please sign this petition to Demand Accountability for Man Who Put Four Puppies in a Trash Can!

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