Missouri’s Humane Society Rescues 43 Emaciated Shiba Inus and Discovers 9 Dog Remains

The Humane Society of Missouri’s Animal Cruelty Task Force (ACT) recently rescued 43 severely malnourished Shiba Inus from a former commercial breeder. Sadly, during the rescue, they also discovered the remains of nine deceased dogs.

The Douglas County Sheriff obtained a warrant to take custody of the dogs and entrust their care to the Humane Society of Missouri (HSMO). These Shiba Inus were pitiful, suffering from injuries, illness, and severe undernourishment. The Missouri Department of Agriculture veterinarian and the ACT team evaluated the dogs before transferring them to HSMO in South City.

Yesterday, our Animal Cruelty Task Force (ACT) rescued 43 starving dogs from a property in Douglas County. Sadly, they also recovered the remains of 9 others while on site.

We are so grateful that these 43 Shiba Inus are being given a second chance ? pic.twitter.com/SRj0kh8x5u

— Humane Society of Missouri (@hsmo) October 19, 2023

Kathy Warnick, the President of HSMO, expressed gratitude to the Animal Health Division staff at the Missouri Department of Agriculture for their assistance in this distressing rescue. She described the conditions at the breeder’s property as one of the most severe cases of animal neglect that year. A concerned citizen’s report to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Department was crucial in saving many innocent dogs and giving them a second chance at life. HSMO is committed to providing these sweet animals the care they need to recover and find loving homes forever.

A disposition hearing is scheduled for November 9 at 9 a.m. at the Douglas County Court in Ava, Missouri. During the hearing, custody of the dogs will be determined. If the court grants HSMO custody, the dogs will undergo health and behavioral assessments by the staff. After they receive medical and behavioral rehabilitation, they will become eligible for adoption. Those interested in adopting can check for availability on the HSMO website at hsmo.org/adopt.

In the meantime, HSMO needs donations, including dog beds, blankets, toys, and newspapers, to help the dogs feel more comfortable during their recovery. If you live in Missouri and suspect animal neglect or abuse, don’t hesitate to report it. You can contact the local police or the Humane Society of Missouri’s Animal Cruelty Hotline at 314-647-4400.