City Times Staff

WISCONSIN RAPIDS — South Wood County Humane Society received 74 dogs from a hoarding situation in Wood County on Wednesday.

The Wood County Humane Officer received an anonymous tip about the unsanitary living conditions and lack of dog food and requested assistance from South Wood County Humane Society. The owner has voluntarily surrendered the dogs to the Humane Society.

Removed from several buildings on the property, the dogs are in good to fair condition although many have inflamed and raw skin from long term exposure to feces and urine. The dogs are Australian Shepherds, Poodles and Aussie Doodles ranging from six months to 12-years-old.

“The well-being of these dogs is our top priority,” said Bridget Chariton, South Wood County Humane Society Executive Director. “They’re receiving additional medical care and lots of love from our staff and volunteers. After acclimating to their new environment, we’ll address each of their needs and get them into homes as soon as possible,”

“This is an unfortunate case of an animal lover who became overwhelmed, had limited resources and simply had more animals than could be properly cared for,” said Chariton.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), 250,000 animals per year are victims of hoarders. Animal hoarding is a complex issue that encompasses mental health, animal welfare and public safety concerns. In the majority of cases, animal hoarders believe they are helping their animals and deny this inability to provide minimum care.

“We are glad that these dogs will have the chance at a fresh start and that the owner will also receive help. We are thankful for the assistance of Wisconsin Humane Society, Elmbrook Humane Society, Madison Area Technical College – Veterinary Technician Program, All Care Animal Hospital, and Happy Paws Pet Grooming for assisting with immediate placement and care.”

South Wood County Humane Society will be closed on Thursday, April 13 and asks that the public holds phone calls and visits until they reopen on Friday, April 14. Normal business hours are Monday, Thursday and Friday 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Tuesday 12:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. and Saturday 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

If you are interested in offering support, monetary donations are the immediate need as medical treatment will be required for many of the dogs. Donations can be made online at www.swchs.com/give-a-monetary-donation/, by mail to 3621 64^th St N, Wisconsin Rapids or dropped off at Bow Wow Meow Pet Boutique.

Please note #74 dogs in the memo line of your payment form to ensure your donation directly supports these dogs.

“We can’t help but reflect on how truly thankful we are for our community’s continued support. And I’m sure these 74 dogs and the 1,000+ pets we receive each year would agree.”