For Immediate Release

Contact: b j Altschul, APR
240.773.5967

Main Shelter Information: 240.773.5960

(Rockville, MD) February 12, 2009 --The Montgomery County Humane Society is preparing for the arrival of approximately 15 dogs and puppies rescued from the most recent puppy mill raid conducted by The Humane Society of the United States. The dogs are expected to arrive Thursday afternoon, February 12.

They will be kenneled initially at the MCHS Private Rescue at 607 South Stonestreet Avenue in Rockville. Many will need special care. Medical and grooming associates are on call to take care of the animals’ immediate needs. They will not be available for adoption until they have been determined ready in terms of physical health, socialization, and grooming.

A year-long investigation by The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) into Thornton’s Kennels led to the seizure of these dogs. The HSUS and Wayne County Animal Control partnered to rescue about 300 neglected animals, many of whom were emaciated, severely matted, and suffering from dental and other serious medical ailments. Volunteers with United Animal Nations are overseeing a temporary emergency shelter in North Carolina.

“It is appalling that any breeder would allow animals to be raised this way,” said MCHS President and CEO Cris Bombaugh. “These dogs will get the medical attention, grooming and TLC they so badly need with our staff and volunteers.”

The community can help care for these special dogs. “Once these canines are used to human interaction and are on their way to good health, we will need the community’s support to find homes for them,” Bombaugh said. To support this rescue mission, please visit the MCHS website, mchumane.org.

####

About the Montgomery County Humane Society:
The Montgomery County Humane Society (MCHS) in Rockville, Maryland, is a non-profit animal welfare organization that has provided animal sheltering services for Montgomery County since 1958. In addition to managing the animal shelter for the county, MCHS also maintains an overflow private rescue center especially well-suited for animals with special needs. As an open admission shelter, we never turn an animal away. In 2007, MCHS assisted The HSUS with a puppy mill rescue from Hillsville, VA, saving 25 dogs and puppies.

The private rescue is located at 607 S. Stonestreet Avenue, Rockville, MD 20850.

www.mchumane.org.