Puppy Mill Rescues Arrive at Hinsdale Humane Society, Find Forever Homes

Submitted by Hinsdale Humane Society. Photo 1: Sharon Detro, HHS Pet Therapy volunteer of Bolingbrook, snuggles in with Poncho prior to his adoption. Photo 2: Chico the puppy mill Chihuahua is now at home with his new family

Hinsdale Humane Society (HHS) recently welcomed two adorable male Chihuahuas, rescued from a Kankakee puppy mill on April 7.

Shelter manager, Jenny Vlazny, travelled to Kankakee to pick up Poncho and Chico, the Chihuahuas, and bring them to our shelter. At 4 and 4 1/2 years old respectively, these boys are just beginning to adjust to this new chapter of their lives away from unsanitary and inhumane conditions, typical of puppy mills. Poncho and Chico have already been adopted and are another HHS success story in their new forever homes.

The recent puppy mill closure by Kankakee authorities (with assistance from Animal Rescue Corps (ARC)) followed a lengthy investigation and numerous reports of animal abuse. When authorities arrived at the basement breeding facility with a warrant, they found 81 dogs and 2 cats living in squalor. ARC, a non-profit puppy mill rescue organization, immediately removed all the animals and brought them to a holding facility where they were examined by volunteer veterinarians, cleaned, and cared for.

Most of the animals needed veterinary care for conditions such as eye infections, upper respiratory problems, dental issues, and skin and coat conditions, and all were micro-chipped and received a rabies vaccination. Fortunately, none of these animals suffered from life-threatening conditions, although this is not always true for puppy mill dogs/cats.

After evaluating the animals and providing initial care, ARC reached out to its partners, a select group of shelters/rescues that ARC screens and accepts based on a lengthy, detailed application. HHS is an ARC partner and was one of 15 shelters responding to help these dogs in need. When ARC completed the distribution process (determined in part by shelter request), each intake organization was notified.

Poncho and Chico acclimated well to their surroundings at the shelter when they arrived. They had never stepped on grass and everything was new to them after being caged for most of their lives. HHS found them secure, loving homes where Poncho and Chico will live out their days as happy, confident family dogs.

HHS’s commitment to rescuing animals, especially those in extraordinary situations, ensures that dogs like Poncho and Chico will have the opportunity to enjoy a loving home that every animal deserves. For more information, visit www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org or call 630-323-5630.

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