Wake County Animal Services, together with local rescue groups, rescued 19 chihuahuas and chihuahua mixes from a home in Willow Spring after an animal cruelty investigation. The dogs arrived emaciated, but thanks to swift action and community volunteers they are now on the road to recovery.
Foster homes provide critical care
Camille Brown, a longtime animal‑lover, was contacted to foster two of the dogs, Chickpea and Lintel. “They pulled nine teeth, but now she is eating like a champ,” Brown told WRAL News after Chickpea underwent emergency dental surgery. Both dogs have been in her care for about a week, and Brown says they are gaining confidence and weight.
“It’s going to take some time to help them gain confidence and socialize them to the world in general,” Brown explained. She hopes the dogs will soon be healthy enough for permanent families.
Rescue organization steps in
Longleaf Rescue founder Mary Lucas coordinated six additional rescues to provide temporary homes while the dogs receive veterinary treatment. Lucas noted that the animals were severely underweight when they were taken from the Willow Spring residence.
“It’s pretty obvious these dogs are gaining weight very quickly, so it’s very clear to see the neglect they suffered based on their weight gain,” Lucas said. The organization is documenting the dogs’ progress to support the ongoing criminal case against the owner.
Legal proceedings continue
The dogs’ former owner, Sharon McDonald, faces ten counts of animal cruelty. She was released on a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on November 23. Wake County Animal Services said there is no further update on the investigation at this time.
Lucas emphasized that the dogs are not yet ready for adoption. “We’re working through their medical needs, getting blood work done, and making sure everyone is gaining weight and looking a lot better,” she said. Many of the dogs still require additional surgeries before they can be placed in permanent homes.
Community response
The case has rallied local animal‑welfare advocates, who see the swift response as a testament to the Triangle’s caring community. Volunteers continue to monitor the dogs’ health, provide socialization, and prepare them for future adoption.
Brown summed up the effort: “We’re just going to continue working on building that confidence, making sure they’re at a good weight, that they’re healthy, and that they’re comfortable enough to be adopted by a new family.”
Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.
