Over 100 Dogs Rescued from Severe Neglect in Raleigh Home, Now Safe and Awaiting Adoption

Jun 9

More than 100 dogs and puppies are finally safe after being rescued from heartbreaking conditions inside a home in Raleigh, North Carolina. The rescue operation took place on Wednesday, June 4, following reports of poor living conditions for animals on the property near New Bern Avenue and New Hope Road.

According to the SPCA of Wake County, the dogs ranged in age from newborn puppies to senior dogs. Many were discovered in stacked cages, packed five or six to a crate, or left to roam in cramped, filthy quarters. Some were confined to wire-bottom cages, and nearly all were living surrounded by their own waste.

Among the 101 dogs rescued were toy poodle mixes, Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, Yorkies, doodle mixes, and even a golden retriever. A litter of goldendoodle puppies was also found caged on the property. The homeowner cooperated with authorities and voluntarily surrendered all the animals—dogs as well as 21 chickens—to Raleigh Animal Control.

"The dogs were kept in egregious conditions and many have obvious health concerns," said Samantha Ranlet, communications manager for SPCA of Wake County.

This rescue effort was a team response, with the dogs quickly taken in by local rescue organizations. SPCA of Wake County took in about 15 dogs, including newborns with their mother, larger puppies, adult dogs, and seniors. Carolina Poodle Rescue, based in South Carolina, took in roughly half of the rescued animals. Other rescue partners also stepped in to help.

The Wake County Animal Center was unable to receive any of the dogs due to overcrowding. As of June 4, the shelter was already housing nearly 240 dogs and puppies, in addition to hundreds of cats and other small animals.

Where the Dogs Are Now

SPCA of Wake County is currently providing medical evaluations and placing dogs into foster care before making them available for adoption. Many are already on the road to recovery and will be looking for loving, permanent homes soon.

Those interested in adopting can visit spcawake.org to view adoptable pets, complete an adoption survey, and schedule an appointment. Adoption fees are $120 for adult dogs (7 months and older) and $325 for puppies (6 months and younger).

Carolina Poodle Rescue is also in the process of caring for many of the rescued dogs. Potential adopters can begin the application process at carolinapoodlerescue.org, where fees vary by dog.

How You Can Help

The SPCA of Wake County is asking for community support to cover the medical costs of the rescued animals. Donations can be made directly on their website, and right now, Care First Animal Hospital is matching all gifts—up to $150,000.

“These events unfolded very quickly,” the SPCA shared in a social media update. “Within an hour of receiving the call for help, our team was on-site, ready to step in. We can't do this without your support.”