Royal Oak Rescue Has 7 of 352 Dogs Taken from Home

Shih Tzu and Japanese Chin Rescue of Royal Oak is lending a helping hand in the largest animal rescue in the state.

On Monday, more than 350 dogs were rescued from a Cheshire Township home in Allegan County.

The dogs, mostly shih tzu and pomeranian mixes with a few maltese and Yorkshire terriers, were found in "horrible shape," said Cathi White, founder of Shih Tzu and Japanese Chin Rescue. 

Dog rescue organizations were called upon to work quickly to find foster homes. White drove three hours Tuesday night to pick up seven dogs at the Allegan Shelter in southwestern Michigan, which could accommodate only 36 dogs. 

The previous owners of the dogs did not have a state-issued kennel license or an active dog license, according to WoodTV 8. "I cared about them," the dogs owner said in the report. "I've been raising them for 40 years."

Dr. Anitha Raj, of Dworkis Dog & Cat Hosptial of Southfield, examined the dogs Wednesday morning, including one in the advanced stages of pregnancy. Once the dogs are vaccinated and treated for worms, as necessary, they should completely recover, according to Raj.

"They will need some monitoring initially," she said. "But once they have food in them, they should be OK."

How to help

• If you are interested in adopting or fostering one of the dogs, email White at shihtzuresq@yahoo.com. 
• Shih Tzu and Japanese Chin Rescue is also in need of dog food, puppy food and old towels or fleece to be used for bedding. Monetary donations are also appreciated. Visit www.shihtzuresq.com for more information.