Dozens of dogs have been rescued from shocking conditions inside a cramped apartment – where many had allegedly never even been outside.
A total of 40 Belgian Malinois were saved after it was discovered the dogs living in extreme captivity.
Some were found stuffed inside cupboards and closets, while others were packed into cramped corners of the flat with no fresh air or daylight.
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The dogs – ranging from tiny puppies to fully grown adults – had reportedly been kept in total confinement their entire lives.
“They’ve likely never touched grass, walked on a leash, or met a stranger,” Dr Biana Tamimi, director of shelter medicine at Animal Care Centers of NYC, which carried out the rescue, told Need To Know.
“Every new sound, every human interaction, is overwhelming.
“But we’re already seeing glimmers of curiosity – and that gives us hope.”
Despite the ACC already operating near capacity, rescue teams moved swiftly to remove the animals from the New York City flat.
Senior staff across multiple departments – including behaviour, medical and animal rescue – were called in to handle the operation.
Since the rescue, the dogs have been undergoing medical checks and behavioural assessments.
Most are said to be highly fearful and under-socialised, with many struggling to cope with unfamiliar sounds, people and environments.
Tara Mercado, ACC’s director of behavior & shelter operations, said: “These dogs have reportedly lived in total confinement for their entire lives.
“We found full-grown Malinois hidden in cabinets and crammed behind furniture.”
None of the dogs are currently available for adoption and many will require long-term care and rehabilitation.
The Belgian Malinois breed is known for being high-energy and intelligent and they are often used as working dogs.
The rescued animals are expected to need highly experienced owners.
Some may be re-homed via specialist breed rescues, several of which have already stepped in to help.
While the 40 dogs rescued from the flat are being assessed, the situation has further strained the city’s already overcrowded shelters.
The Queens ACC facility is now at nearly triple capacity, and staff are also caring for over 165 dogs at their Manhattan and Staten Island centres – all of which are still waiting to be re-homed.
Investigations into the case are ongoing.
Jessica Vacarro, ACC’s director of placement, added: “Several breed specific rescues have already offered their assistance in finding homes.
“With our dog population now at near triple capacity in Queens alone, we are also in desperate need of placement for the additional 175 dogs already in care in Queens and the 165 dogs currently waiting for homes at our Manhattan and Staten Island Care Centers.”
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