North Shore Shelter Beagle Rescues Draw Overwhelming Interest

SALEM, MA —An overwhelming interest in the nearly 100 Beagles rescued and brought to the Northeast Animal Shelter in Salem and other MSPCA shelters in the state in the last two weeks has caused the MSPCA to shut down adoption applications.

"Since their story went live, more than 800 adoption inquiries poured in for the Beagles in our care," the MSPCA said on Tuesday, "and at this time we've closed down new inquiries.

"Thanks to all of you for sharing their story and helping them find new, loving homes."

The MSCPA said that 76 of the beagles arrived in Massachusetts on June 16 with another 20 expected to be brought to the state over that weekend.

The MPSCA said that the dogs were living in confined and unsanitary conditions with little to no socialization. Two of the dogs were also pregnant at the time of the rescue and had since given birth — so the group included 13 newborn puppies.

"This is undoubtedly one of the most consequential national operations we've ever been a part of and our focus is ensuring these dogs will be cherished and loved by new families here," Mike Keiley, director of adoption centers and programs at the MSPCA-Angell, said.

Because it is an active case, the MSPCA said it could not offer more details on the conditions and those responsible for them at this time.

Those wishing to put in an application to adopt another available pet at the Northeast Animal Shelter can do so here.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)