29/06/2025
Late Thursday night, HVARS received an urgent call from our friends at Compassionate Animal Rescue Efforts of Dutchess County - CARE of DC — over 80 dogs had just been pulled from a horrific hoarding situation in Brooklyn, NY. These dogs were found living in truly unimaginable conditions: crammed into filth, severely neglected, many covered in f***s, urine, and painfully matted fur. Some were so weak they could barely stand. Among them were everything from fragile newborn puppies to extremely elderly seniors.
Within hours, two rescue organizations came together to accomplish something incredible. Both HVARS and CARE of DC committed to taking in 40 of these dogs together — a massive undertaking that will require weeks, even months, of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and resources.
Since the first vanload arrived Friday afternoon from Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC), it has been nonstop. Our teams have been working around the clock to stabilize these dogs — providing urgent veterinary care and medically necessary grooming to ease years of suffering and neglect.
Some dogs were so severely matted they were having trouble breathing. As we shaved away pounds of f***s-caked fur, you could see the physical relief wash over them. Many were so matted that until shaved, we couldn’t even determine their gender.
We absolutely couldn’t have done this alone. Pampered Pooch Grooming & Boutique stepped up without hesitation — grooming and bathing dozens of dogs. Not only did Rachel help us until midnight on Friday night, she and her team spent their Saturday night working hard to get everyone feeling so much better.
This case is a heartbreaking reminder that animal hoarding is a serious mental illness, and the animals caught in it suffer in silence. The individual involved likely thought she was helping — that she was saving these dogs — until it spiraled far beyond her control. People who hoard animals often don’t intend to cause harm, but love without resources, space, or medical care becomes neglect. In this case, the animals paid the ultimate price. These dogs lived like this for years — trapped in filth, fear, and pain, hidden behind closed doors.
That’s why it’s so important to speak up. If something feels wrong, it probably is. If you see something, say something. These animals don’t have a voice — but we do. It’s up to all of us to be their advocates, to shine a light in the dark, and to speak for the voiceless before it’s too late.
This rescue is a shining example of what’s possible when animal welfare groups come together. It truly takes a village in the rescue world — and we’re proud to be part of one that shows up when it matters most.
We’re just at the beginning of this journey. These dogs have a long road to recovery — but now, they’re safe. They’re loved. And for the first time, they have a future.
Please follow their stories. Consider donating, fostering, or volunteering — and help us give these resilient souls the second chance they’ve always deserved.
For many in that home, we were too late. But for the several dozen we were able to save — along with those rescued by other dedicated local organizations — this is the first day of the rest of their lives. After years of suffering, they are finally safe. They are finally seen. And they are now the lucky ones.
In addition to monetary donations, HVARS is in urgent need of supplies to help care for these dogs. We’re currently accepting donations of newspapers, towels, and sheets. These basics go a long way in helping us keep everyone comfortable, clean, and safe during their recovery.
Thank you for standing with us, and with them. Together, we are the village. Together, we save lives.
👉Donate today at www.hvars.org/donate
