Sixteen small dogs were found with severely matted hair and in need of extensive medical and grooming care after being abandoned by their owner inside a New Jersey home, according to officials.
The pups were rescued from a home in Newark after the owner had reportedly moved out about a month ago, the Associated Humane Societies (AHS) said Thursday. The group noted that given the dogs’ conditions, it may have been even longer since the dogs were properly cared for.
Neighbors stepped in to provide any help they could, but the dogs needed more care to address their conditions.
Some of the dogs required sedation to address the matted hair they have been dealing with, AHS said. Other younger pups, just months old, will need time to adjust to their new lives.
“The condition these dogs arrived in is heartbreaking, but they are finally safe and surrounded by people who are committed to giving them the care and compassion they deserve,” said Danielle Mania, COO of Associated Humane Societies. “Our team is working tirelessly to help each one of them heal and prepare for the next chapter of their lives.”
Once medically cleared, the dogs will be available for adoption, said AHS.
