'An overwhelming, heartbreaking scene:' Over 100 dogs and puppies rescued from alleged neglect at Havanese breeder's residence in Harford County, Maryland

HARFORD COUNTY, Md., Aug. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Humane World for Animals, formerly called the Humane Society of the United States, assisted the Harford County Sheriff's Office in rescuing over 100 dogs and puppies in a large-scale alleged neglect situation at a breeder's residence in Harford County, Maryland.

Local authorities served a search and seizure warrant on the property at approximately 7 a.m. Rescuers were overwhelmed by the odor of ammonia and feces emanating from the residence. Dogs were found roaming throughout the residence, while others were contained in filthy, stacked wire-bottom cages without apparent access to food or water. Groups of two to three dogs were cramped together in 1-foot by 1-foot-6-inch cages, giving them no choice but to step on top of each other. Some of the dogs were severely matted, and veterinarians noted several suffering from painful dental abscesses, eye discharge and skin infections.

A mother dog was found in a whelping box nursing three weeks-old puppies, inches away from a recently deceased puppy. Some of the neonate puppies were found to have urine scalding. Veterinarians noted many of the dogs are underweight and some are emaciated.

"It's an overwhelming, heartbreaking scene—you couldn't walk a few feet without stepping around dogs or slipping in their waste," said Stacy Volodin, Maryland state director, Humane World for Animals. "We are grateful to the Harford County Sheriff's Office for their work to investigate and intervene in this situation. Thanks to everyone here today, this is the last day these dogs and puppies have to live like this."

"Our Animal Control Unit plays a vital role in protecting the health and safety of both animals and our community," said Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler. "Through strong partnerships with local organizations like Humane World for Animals and our local humane society, as well as engaged citizens, we're able to respond compassionately to situations where animals are at risk. Together, we can work to see that every animal in Harford County is treated with dignity and care."

The dogs were part of a Havanese and Biewer terrier breeding operation, which over the years has advertised breeding parents titled by the American Kennel Club.

"This situation underscores something we know all too well—you can't rely on adorable photos, AKC-celebrated pedigrees, or assurances from pet stores and online platforms that claim to evaluate breeders to ensure your puppy got the best possible start," said John Goodwin, senior managing director of Humane World for Animals' Stop Puppy Mills campaign. "We have resources available to help evaluate responsible breeders and avoid puppy mills, but visiting in-person, looking at the parents and asking yourself 'Would I want to live like this?' is perhaps the most critical tip."

The rescued animals are being transported to an undisclosed location where Humane World for Animals responders and volunteers will provide veterinary exams and much-needed care. RedRover Responders volunteers will also assist with daily care.

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About Humane World for Animals

Together, we tackle the root causes of animal cruelty and suffering to create permanent change. With millions of supporters and work happening in over 50 countries, Humane World for Animals—formerly called the Humane Society of the United States and Humane Society International—addresses the most deeply entrenched forms of animal cruelty and suffering. As the leading voice in the animal protection space, we work to end the cruelest practices, care for animals in crisis and build a stronger animal protection movement. Driving toward the greatest global impact, we aim to achieve the vision behind our name: a more humane world.
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SOURCE Humane World for Animals.