Merced, CA (December 1, 2025) — A large-scale rescue effort last week brought more than 80 neglected Chihuahuas into the care of New Beginnings for Merced County Animals after volunteers uncovered severe hoarding conditions inside a Ceres residence. What began as a call for help involving just a few dozen Chihuahuas quickly proved far more serious. When volunteers entered the residence, and later checked a second home nearby, they found the number of dogs was dramatically higher, with roughly 100 animals between the two properties and more than 80 crowded inside the main house.
The dogs appeared extremely frightened and showed signs of long-term neglect. Many had advanced dental decay serious enough to interfere with basic eating, prompting New Beginnings to partner with Valley Animal Hospital for urgent treatment. The clinic estimated that dental and medical procedures for each dog could cost up to $3,000, depending on the severity of their condition.
The community response was immediate. Roughly 30 families stepped in to foster the rescued dogs, despite their specialized needs…