Earlier this year, we responded to a complaint about two severely neglected dogs in Mississippi. While we initially tried to improve the situation, it quickly became clear that the dogs, one of whom had since given birth to eight puppies, needed to be removed from the property. Now, we’re celebrating a win for these dogs who we helped seize in cooperation with local law enforcement and animal protection agencies, and we couldn’t be happier they’re starting over in entirely new lives.

In February, our Justice for Animals Campaign Director Doll Stanley responded to the initial complaint about two dogs, a German shepherd and a lab mix, who were neglected and had no shelter. While she and Winston County Deputy Dylan Alford tried to help by providing dog houses and advising on proper care, Stanley was again called back to the property after more complaints were made.

Their negligent guardian, Stanley Montgomery, was asked to release the dogs, but he refused. A seizure order was obtained and we returned to the property. Louise, the mother dog, and her eight puppies were removed and taken for much-needed veterinary care with help from Louisville Animal Control. An initial exam found she was in terrible shape. Not only was she starving, but she was also suffering from internal and external parasites, and had a dark ring around her neck where she had been chained.

Unfortunately, when we went back that day for Louise and her puppies, the German shepherd, who had been seen with a severe injury caused by a training chain that was wearing into his neck as he moved and the chain repositioned, had been taken from the property and hidden. While we were worried, thanks to help from law enforcement and others who wanted to see him have a better life, we were able to locate him and seize him too.

He’s since been named Winston, in honor of the team of officers who helped rescue him, and has been adopted. The puppies have been placed with partner organizations who will find them each the perfect homes, and Louise is being fostered by Stanley until she can be adopted.

Montgomery was also charged with animal cruelty and was sentenced this month to serve two weeks in jail and pay a $500 fine. He also received a three-month suspended sentence that he will have to serve if he’s found with another dog in his possession.

We’re thrilled with how this situation turned out for these dogs, who each deserve their own happily ever afters, and especially grateful to our supporters who make this life-saving work possible in the Deep South.

There are so many dogs and other animals in need of advocacy and rescue in Mississippi, and we’re working to help as many as we can. You can help support our efforts by making a donation, and find more ways to help by visiting our Justice for Animals and Break the Chains campaigns.