The Humane Society assisted authorities in rescuing 166 severely neglected dogs and cats from a property in rural Adams County, OH earlier this month. Little did they know that one of the dogs had been missing from his family in Indiana for more than five years!
Chuckie, a boisterous Chocolate Lab mix was chained near the front of the property in deplorable conditions. According to the Humane Society You Tube Channel, Chuckie’s chain had become entwined in the rotting carcass of a deer that had been the poor dog’s only source of food.
It’s Humane Society protocol to scan all animals for a microchip. When it was Chuckie’s turn, there was a match to his Indiana pawrents! The cheerful reunion was caught on video, and Chuckie obviously remembers the family he lost so long ago. Although it is not clear how Chuckie came to be missing or how he ended up in Ohio, the family is clearly ecstatic to have him home.
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So far, Chuckie is the only pet out of the 166 to be reunited with former owners. None of the animals have been euthanized, but several are in very poor condition. They range in age from pups and kittens to seniors, and have obviously been denied even basic care. The Humane Society reported dogs and cats in various states of neglect, including emaciated body conditions, untreated wounds, broken bones, and eye, skin and ear infections.
The Cleveland Animal Protective League and Toledo Area Humane Society are caring for some of the animals, others are in a temporary shelter owned by the Humane Society. The healthiest among them will be ready for adoption as early as January. The Adams County Prosecutor’s Office is currently looking into charges to be brought against the Mount Unger property owner.
Featured Image via The Humane Society of the United States
