CEDAR GROVE, Tenn — The Animal Rescue Corps (ARC), a nonprofit animal protection organization, said they responded to a request from authorities in Henderson County to assist with the removal of 54 cats and dogs living in deplorable living conditions in and around a single-family residence.
It's the third rescue this week from the ARC.
The organization says 40 dogs and 14 cats were found in dilapidated enclosures, running loose around the trash-strewn property, and in the home located in West Tennessee.
Many of the dogs found exhibited signs of severe mange, fur loss, internal and external parasites, eye infections, and several with open wounds.
The organization says extremely high ammonia levels in the home required rescuers to wear protective respirators before they could enter.
All animals have been surrendered to Animal Rescue Corps by the homeowner.
“With temperatures dropping to the low twenties, these dogs could die from exposure,” said ARC Executive Director, Tim Woodward. “Their body conditions are poor and they're suffering from mange, leaving them without any protection from the cold. Time was of the essence.”
There is an overall total of 91 dogs and 14 cats in ARC's Rescue Operation Center in Lebanon, Tennessee.
Each animal will receive a thorough veterinary exam, appropriate vaccinations and any necessary medical treatment.
The purpose of the ARC is to provide daily care until the animal can be transferred to a shelter and rescue organization that will ultimately allow them to be adopted to a loving and safe home.
For people wishing to foster or adopt, ARC will publish its list of shelter and rescue placement partners on its Facebook for placement locations.
For more information about Animal Rescue Corps, please visit their website.
