Newark shelter seeks rescue help after severely neglected dogs are surrendered
The dogs, named Gucci and Grandpa, were brought to the shelter Monday evening inside a storage tote.
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Two dogs are recovering after being surrendered to the Associated Humane Societies in Newark in what staff describe as extreme neglect, prompting an urgent call for rescue organizations to step in and help.
The dogs, named Gucci and Grandpa, were brought to the shelter Monday evening inside a storage tote. According to shelter staff, both were so severely matted that they could barely move.
They were so badly matted that neither of them could walk, which is a real medical concern for these two dogs," said Olivia Gonzalez, social media coordinator for the Associated Humane Societies of Newark. “
Because of the extent of the matting, staff were unable to begin a full medical evaluation right away. Their first priority was shaving off the dense, painful fur that had hardened over time.
“It was clear that these dogs were severely neglected,” Gonzalez said. “The matting had hardened into almost a shell or cast. It appeared to be years and years of neglect.”
Once the fur was removed, staff discovered hidden masses, severe dental disease, overgrown nails and fur so filthy that urine and feces were trapped inside. In total, more than three pounds of matted fur were removed from the two dogs.
While Gucci and Grandpa are now safe, shelter officials say their recovery is just beginning.
“We’re not sure when they were last seen medically or when they were last groomed,” Gonzalez said. “It looks like it could have been over a year.”
The shelter is now seeking rescue placement for the dogs, where they can receive specialized medical care and continue healing. Officials say they are relying heavily on local New Jersey rescue organizations, as the shelter resources are limited.
The shelter is also seeking rescue placement for another dog, Lucy, who has a concerning mass in her mammary area that needs further medical evaluation.
