YPD, HSOY rescue neglected dogs

Twenty-nine dogs suffering from neglect and malnutrition were rescued by the Humane Society of Yuma (HSOY) and the Yuma Police Department Thursday.

The dogs had been living in squalor at a 1st Avenue residence in Yuma's north end.

HSOY said it received an anonymous tip regarding a dog without water, food or shelter in the backyard of the residence, and sent an animal control officer to investigate at about 1 p.m.

Once on scene, the officer observed three dogs who were chained to a single tree in the front yard of the residence. A fourth dog was chained to the side of the house while nine more dogs were chained in the back yard.

HSOY said nearly all of the dogs in the backyard were suffering from malnutrition and were severely emaciated. Upon discovery, the responding officer alerted YPD.

"Such cruel mistreatment of animals will not be tolerated by our community," said Annette Lagunas, director of operations for HSOY. "We will be working diligently with the Yuma Police Department to ensure that this case is properly litigated."

According to HSOY, YPD and animal control officers entered the house and found 16 additional small dogs. The dogs had no access to food or water and the interior of the home was in deplorable conditions. The owner signed the dogs over and all 29 were taken to HSOY for evaluation.

HSOY said it will evaluate each animal in the coming weeks to decide whether or not they will be available for adoption.