Just a week after they were rescued from a harrowing living situation, five of 68 dogs seized from a Winnipeg house are ready to go to their new homes.
The Winnipeg Humane Society said Thursday that it’s opening adoptions for the dogs who are currently old enough and healthy enough.
The dogs were seized when Winnipeg police discovered them while at the Richmond West-area home for an unrelated reason. Many of them had serious health conditions, including severely matted fur.
Many of the dogs, the humane society said, are set to be spayed and neutered at the WHS’s own clinic and at Grant Park Animal Hospital.
“We have eight more than are in surgery today,” said WHS adoption manager Daphne Hee.
“They’re just going to come in in batches, so that we can regulate our human resources and the incoming inquiries a little bit better to fully get them all adopted out.”
Hee said it’s great to see so much attention on all 68 dogs, and understands why people are eager to adopt them, but the humane society wants potential pet owners to be aware that they aren’t the only animals in need of a good home.
“We are overwhelmed. We were full to begin with, so there are still a lot of animals, other puppies and dogs, who are still desperately needing a home,” she said.
“When you have a dog coming from such a big famous story, it’s always a good conversation starter when you go to the dog park or go to a family event. So I don’t blame people who want to… but adoption is more than the story and fame. It is, in the end, helping the animal find a forever home.”
In addition to the initial group of animals seized, a total of 11 puppies have been born after coming into the humane society’s care.
Although only five of the animals are currently being made available, the WHS said potential adopters should watch the website for updates or call the adoption line at 204-892-2035 for more information.