Additional Coverage:
Race Against Time: Animal Advocates Scramble to Save 200+ Dogs Ahead of Winter Storm
Jackson, Miss. – A harrowing rescue operation is underway in rural Mississippi, as animal advocates desperately work to save over 200 dogs from a “house of horrors” property before a major winter storm descends on Friday.
Paws of War, a New York-based nonprofit dedicated to pairing rescued animals with veterans and first responders, is leading the charge. Co-founder Robert Misseri described the scene in Tupelo, Mississippi, as utterly grim upon his team’s arrival on Wednesday. Skeletal remains of dogs were found in the yard, amidst pervasive feces, with many dogs living both inside and outside the dilapidated home.
“It’s rewarding seeing them come off the property for the first time, knowing that they will ultimately wind up on someone’s couch,” Misseri reflected, his voice trailing off as he considered the years of silent suffering endured by these animals.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office reached out to Paws of War for assistance in rehoming the animals. By Thursday evening, approximately 60 dogs had been placed in nine shelters, while Paws of War transported 45 dogs back to New York.
Further south, the Northshore Humane Society in Covington, Louisiana, became a critical partner, undertaking a 300-mile journey on Wednesday for what they dubbed “Operation: Tupelo Tails.” Thirteen of the rescued dogs are now under their care.
Scott Bernier, CEO of the Northshore Humane Society, painted a stark picture of the dogs’ condition. “A lot of these dogs have scars on their faces, which is evidence that they were probably sparring with the other dogs for food,” he explained, noting the severe neglect. Veterinary technician Scout Cannizzaro confirmed that many dogs presented with upper respiratory infections and skin conditions, with heartworm also anticipated.
With their facility’s age and poor heat retention, the Northshore Humane Society is actively seeking foster homes for the new arrivals. Bernier assured the public, however, that any animals remaining at the shelter during the storm will be kept warm and safe.
Overnight, Paws of War continued its frantic efforts to secure shelter for the remaining dogs. Misseri’s team is also actively searching for additional skittish dogs that may have fled the property, warning that the total number of animals needing rescue could climb to 300. He made a solemn vow: “No matter what happens, he will not allow the dogs to be left outside during the storm,” and issued an urgent plea for other shelters to step forward.
“We weren’t prepared for this,” Misseri admitted, highlighting the overwhelming scale of the crisis.
Paws of War has released a statement emphasizing their critical needs: “rescue partners willing to take dogs, monetary donations to fund medical care, transport, and supplies, and local volunteers who can step in and help.”
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the situation.