Andrews – The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office served an eviction notice at a property at 95 Caribou Lane on Friday that turned out to be more than they bargained for.
In addition to about 11 people living on the property, there were dozens of dogs, a cat and three birds living under “pretty horrific conditions,” according to Cheyenne Spicola, shelter manager at the Valley River Humane Society.
The property owner alerted authorities about the dog problem, and the sheriff’s office contacted the humane society on July 5 for its assistance, giving the organization a couple of days to prepare. The work started a 1 p.m. Friday and ended for the day at 9 p.m., Spicola told the Cherokee Scout.
But the work hasn’t stopped there. Volunteers have been going out to the property each day putting out food to round up any strays that were missed Friday.
The 1-acre property includes a main building with several outbuildings, according to tax records. Spicola said the property is not fenced and the animals were allowed to roam, so she isn’t certain that the count is final. At present, the dog count stands at 39, all of which were found in the main house.
It was the largest animal rescue operation in Cherokee County since 111 dogs were rescued from a Bellview home in August 2006.
“This is what happens when we don’t spay and neuter our animals,” Spicola said. She estimated that one family arrived with a couple of dogs, and it just took off from there over the next few years.
She said the property owner had been trying to evict the renters for three years before eviction day arrived.
Spicola said there was little to indicate the animals were being cared for. There were no water or food dishes, and the entire property reeked of feces and urine. She said her lungs hurt after being inside one building for just a few minutes.
The sudden onslaught of homeless dogs, cats and birds stretched the humane society’s capacity to its limits. Andrews Veterinary Hospital, which also assisted Friday, has provided space for seven dogs. Dr. Cynthia Post, a veterinarian at the hospital, provided on-scene medical care for the animals, with some of her staff triaging the animals.
Over the weekend, the Valley River Humane Society alerted Facebook followers about the operation and the need for additional resources.
“We had an absolutely AMAZING team of people pull together. Dr. Post volunteered her time to help us to triage and vet all of the dogs,” according to the post. “Dr. (Shanna) Baker from Andrews Veterinary is housing some animals for us.
“Our amazing fosters came to take in litters of young puppies and spent time loving on all the babies. … It was a whirlwind of activity and we just thank God for ALL of the people who came together to help rescue these animals. I’m happy to report that all of the animals are doing great! They’re all learning what a clean, loving environment full of food and treats is like.”
Kennel manager Hunter Drewry posted on his Facebook page, saying, “Today 39 dogs, one cat, and 3 birds started a whole new life that we will make sure is full of love ... exactly what they deserve!!!
“We are going to continue to work to make sure that any possibly remaining sweet souls that might still be hiding out there are made safe and secure.”
The shelter needs food donations among other necessities in order to care for the sudden increase in its dog population. To see the shelter’s Amazon wish list, go to https://a.co/9lzhf2F.