 |
| One of the many dogs rescued by Austin Humane Society this week. Photo from Austin Humane Society |
This is a heartbreaking story of more than 150 dogs who were kept in a Bastrop County home without spaying, neutering, adequate medical care, grooming, or clean living space. The couple keeping the dogs voluntarily gave them up to the Humane Society because they couldn’t care for them. Obviously.
Animal hoarding stories are so sad. It’s obviously a sickness on the part of the humans, and I know I feel helpless thinking about all the care needed for such a large number of animals. But, we can help. You can help. Donate money to provide for all these animals. Donate items such as dog crates, animal carriers, towels, or any of the items on the Austin Humane Society wish list. Donate your time. The Humane Society needs dog groomers, and, I imagine, vet care for all of these animals. And above all, always get your pets from a rescue and never from a pet store breeder. If you’ve been considering adopting a dog, now is the time.
UPDATE: Check out photos of the dogs on the Humane Society’s Facebook page.
Thank you so much for bring this issue to our attention.
I'm a researcher for the series Confessions: Animal Hoarding, currently airing on Animal Planet that tells the stories of people overwhelmed by the number of pets they own. The problem is on the rise and affect communities across America.
If you are concerned about the health of animals in someone's care and suspect they may be hoarding them, we might be able to help.
Most animal hoarders don’t see themselves as hoarders, and sometimes don’t intentionally collect animals. Their relationship with their animals has threatened their relationships with friends and family.
Most of these situations aren’t dealt with until they become criminal. This results in animals being euthanized by over-stressed shelters, and doesn’t address the underlying psychological issues – meaning nearly 100% of people end up in the same situation again.
We are dedicated to finding comprehensive long-term solutions and believe therapy to be key to this. We can bring in experts to help people and their pets.
If you or someone you know needs help because animals have overrun their life, visit http://www.animalhoardingproject.com to learn more and submit their story. Alternatively, contact me directly at help@animalhoardingproject.com or toll-free at
1 -877-698-7387.
We will treat all submissions with confidentiality and respect.