When neighbors in Pasco County called for help, Rags to Riches Animal Rescue stepped in and rescued six more dachshunds from a severely overcrowded home. The dogs join a group of 21 dachshunds that were surrendered last week to Pinellas County Animal Services and transferred to the Humane Society of Tampa Bay (HSTB) for care.
Background on the original rescue
Last Friday, two owners living in Pasco County surrendered 21 dachshunds to Pinellas County Animal Services. The animals were quickly moved to HSTB, where staff began treating them for a range of health problems, including ear infections, dental disease and skin conditions. During a follow‑up exam, veterinarians discovered that several of the dogs were also developing knee issues.
One of the two pregnant females gave birth to six puppies over the weekend. Both the adult dogs and the newborn puppies will require several weeks of medical care and training before they are ready for adoption.
New rescue operation
Rags to Riches Animal Rescue Inc., a Tampa‑based nonprofit, received a tip from Good Samaritans and neighbors that additional dogs remained on the same property. “It was probably the most disgusting house I’ve been in, and I’ve done a couple hoarding cases,” said Dominique Amerosa, owner of the rescue organization.
Rescue volunteers entered the home late Friday and worked through the weekend to remove the six dachshunds. “They were on the roofs. They were living under the floor. They were everywhere,” Amerosa described.
Medical care and next steps
Veterinary exams revealed that some of the newly rescued dogs are battling heartworm disease, a serious condition that requires prompt treatment. The rescue team is coordinating with HSTB veterinarians to administer the necessary medication and monitor the dogs’ recovery.
Amerosa emphasized that the focus now is on building trust, providing basic training, and ensuring each dog is healthy enough for adoption. “We’re just working on training, trust, and all that stuff before we put them up for adoption,” she said, noting that the process will take several weeks.
Legal status
As of Monday, the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that no criminal charges have been filed against the owners of the hoarding property. The investigation remains open, and authorities are continuing to assess the situation.
How the community can help
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay encourages local residents to consider adopting one of the rescued dachshunds once they are cleared for placement. Volunteers are also needed to assist with socialization, grooming and transport.
Donations of food, blankets, and veterinary supplies are welcomed by both HSTB and Rags to Riches Animal Rescue. Those interested in supporting the effort can contact the rescue directly through their website or visit the Humane Society’s adoption center in Tampa.
Looking ahead
With the combined total of 27 dachshunds now under care, the rescue community in Tampa Bay is rallying to give these animals a second chance. The ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation and eventual adoption plans reflect a broader commitment to animal welfare and responsible pet ownership in the region.
Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
