Over 60 Dogs Rescued from Hoarding Cases Find New Homes
- More than 60 dogs were rescued from hoarding situations in Riverside County by Wings of Rescue.
- The dogs were transported to better care facilities over the last two weeks.
- The initiative highlights the ongoing issue of animal hoarding and the need for responsible pet ownership.
In a significant rescue operation, more than 60 dogs were flown to their new homes on Friday, many of which were saved from multiple hoarding cases in Riverside County. The initiative followed a series of incidents in the Coachella Valley, including a notable case in Sky Valley where 50 dogs were discovered on a property after the owner's passing. The Hume Society of the Desert Foundation reached out to Wings of Rescue, a nonprofit dedicated to transporting at-risk shelter pets, to facilitate the urgent relocation of these animals. The flight was funded by the Humane Society of the Desert, with a volunteer coordinating efforts with county officials to ensure a swift transport. Erin Gettis, the Director of Animal Services, expressed enthusiasm about the community's response to the crisis, highlighting the collaboration that enabled the rescue of approximately 80 dogs from three separate hoarding situations. "This is a fantastic example of how the community can help with this crisis," Gettis stated. Wings of Rescue has been instrumental in saving pets since 2012, having transported over 73,000 animals across 2.2 million miles. CEO Ric Browde praised the collective efforts of local shelter partners and donors, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in these extraordinary rescues. Volunteers Kale and Anji Garcia piloted the flight, ensuring the dogs were delivered to shelters in high-demand areas without displacing local pets. The successful operation underscores the vital role of community involvement in animal rescue efforts, showcasing a model for future initiatives.