By Shannon McFarlin WENK/WTPR News Director
Union City, Tenn.—A situation that began with people asking for help in providing food for their pets turned into a rescue of 33 dogs that were living in inadequate conditions in a Union City home over the weekend.
Union City Animal Control Officer Amanda Haslett this morning said the situation began at 1:30 p.m. Friday when the residents of 1912 E. Main Street came to her seeking help for their dogs. “They needed assistance with dog food for their animals,” she said. “And we sat down and I told them I could get them help but I needed to know how many dogs they had and they started to tell me the dog’s names and when we got to 22 names, I asked them where they were all staying and they said in the house.”
Hazlett went with the house with the residents and with consent to search began looking at the conditions in which the animals were being kept. Haslett said she immediately called Kim Rezek of the Animal Rescue Corps which works out of Lebanon.
Animal Rescue Corps began a rescue of the 33 dogs in the home which lasted way into the night. “They got here about 9 p.m. and we set up emergency lights so everyone could see,” Haslett said. “We were there until 12:30 a.m.”
Animal cruelty charges have been filed against Melanie Allmon, Haslett said.
The dogs are of all different breeds and sizes, ranging from chihuahuas to labs, she said. “The youngest dog was four days old, still with its momma.”
Haslett said the residents were very cooperative with authorities. “They just needed help and were overwhelmed. We’ve had a lot of offers from the community to help them and also help the dogs. We’re finding the people another place to live.”
The dogs were seized and taken to the Animal Rescue Corps’ headquarters, where they are being cared for. Recovery of the dogs will be a lengthy process and they will be available to adopt after the process is complete. Information on how to adopt the
Rezek said the dogs are exhibiting signs of severe, chronic neglect, including broken bones, emaciation, mange, dehydration, worms and other conditions. Donations are being accepted through Animal Rescue Corps’ Facebook page.
Petsense of Union City also is beginning a drive today to help the animals. Petsense is collecting food and toys for the 33 dogs and they can bring the items—and donations—to the pet store at 1401 W. Reelfoot St.
In a Facebook post, Petsense said, “It’s disappointing this could happen in our town, in city limits, with neighbors and friends all around this situation. As your local pet supply store, we ask anyone who needs assistance either by asking for food or reporting similar instances around you, to come to us, a confident and welcoming environment, to find a resolve before it gets this bad. As such, we are starting a food and toy drive for these animals ranging from the smallest to biggest dogs and cats. Petsense Union City has already made a donation of food and puppy pads but the need is much bigger! We ask you to come visit our store and help us help these animals. Donations are accepted as well. Wags will be working with us to ensure all your donations are documented and delivered to these animals in need.”
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