Animals Rescued In Raid Up For Adoption
44 Animlas, Including 36 Dogs Taken From Home

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- The Humane Society of Huron Valley is asking for the public's help after an animal cruelty raid in Webster Township put the already overcapacitied shelter in dire straights.

The Thursday night raid at a home on Dexter Street landed 44 more animals at the shelter.


The Humane Society of Huron Valley's (HSHV) Animal Cruelty Investigators were called to the home on an anonymous tip about five dogs left outside with no food and water.

When investigators went to the home, they found 36 dogs, six exotic birds and two cats.

Investigators said the dogs included 31 Whippets ranging in age, including puppies, four Italian Greyhounds and a Skye Terrier.

"It appears that this family was illegally breeding the dogs for profit but our investigation is still underway at this time," said Matt Schaecher, HSHV Lead Cruelty Investigator

Investigators said the animals were living in filthy conditions with two adults.

"There were feces everywhere. Animals in every corner, puppies, young babies everywhere," said Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV Executive Director.

Schaecher said he believes animal cruelty charges will be filed in the case.

All of the rescued animals were taken to the Humane Society of Huron Valley and are undergoing health evaluations.

HSHV staff members said it appears all of the animals will be able to be put up for adoption within a few days.

"These dogs will need some extra training, but Whippets make great family companions and are typically very good with children," said Hilgendorf.

Hilgendorf said the animals came at a time when the shelter was already beyond capacity with dogs, cats, puppies and kittens.

HSHV staff members said the summer is the peak time when people begin moving and leave their pets behind.

"Having enough space and people power to take care of these is an enormous stretch for us right now. But this is our mission. We are here to take care of the animals that need us the most," adds Hilgendorf.

For more information about animal adoption at the HSHV, visit www.hshv.org or call 734-662-5585.