Over 100 dogs rescued from alleged neglect at home in Havre de Grace

The Humane World for Animals and the Harford County Sheriff’s Office rescued more than 100 dogs and puppies in an alleged neglect situation at a breeder’s residence in Havre de Grace on Wednesday.

When rescuers arrived at the property, they were overwhelmed by the odor of ammonia and feces. According to a press release, dogs were found roaming throughout the residence, with others contained in stacked wire-bottom cages without apparent access to food or water.

Humane World for Animals, formally known as the Humane Society of the United States, said some of the dogs were severely matted with veterinarians noticing several of them suffering from painful dental abscesses, eye discharge and skin infections. Vets also noted many of the dogs were underweight.

“It’s an overwhelming, heartbreaking scene—you couldn’t walk a few feet without stepping around dogs or slipping in their waste,” said Stacey Volodin, Maryland state director at Humane World for Animals, in the release. “This is the last day these dogs and puppies have to live like this.”

The dogs rescued were part of a Havanese and Biewer terrier breeding operation, the organization said.

“This situation underscores something we know all too well—you can’t rely on adorable photos, AKC-celebrated pedigrees, or assurances from pet stores and online platforms that claim to evaluate breeders to ensure your puppy got the best possible start,” said John Goodwin, senior managing director of Humane World for Animals’ Stop Puppy Mills campaign, in a press release. “We have resources available to help evaluate responsible breeders and avoid puppy mills, but visiting in-person, looking at the parents and asking yourself ‘would I want to live like this?’ is perhaps the most critical tip.”

The dogs were transported to an undisclosed location for further care and treatment.

“Seeing the relief as we free these dogs from the weight and pain of severe matting is the best feeling in the world,” said Laura Koivula, director of animal crimes and investigations at Humane World for Animals, in an email. “Many of them have a long road to recovery ahead, but we are excited to see them perking up as they start to receive the care they’ve desperately needed.”

Once the dogs have gone through their initial care, Humane World for Animals says, they’ll begin working with their partners throughout the country to place them based on each shelter’s capacity.

The Harford County Sheriff’s Office will submit their findings to the State’s Attorney’s Office, who will determine whether charges will be filed or not.

“Through strong partnerships with local organizations like Humane World for Animals and our local humane society, as well as engaged citizens, we’re able to respond compassionately to situations where animals are at risk,” said Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler, in a press release. “Together, we can work to see that every animal in Harford County is treated with dignity and care.”

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