Three malnourished dogs rescued from a Pembroke Pines apartment earlier this year have staged major comebacks and are now living with foster and adoptive families, thanks to a small army of local volunteers. Their turnaround shows how neighborhood rescues and private foster homes can completely redirect the lives of animals pulled out of neglect.
Pembroke Pines police officers found the three dogs crammed into a small crate on a balcony in early February, severely underweight with ribs showing and one pup so anemic it was considered dangerous, according to CBS Miami. Officers reported that temperatures were near freezing during the rescue and that the animals were soaked in urine and feces. The dogs were quickly moved into the care of volunteers and veterinarians for emergency treatment.
How Pooches In Pines Stepped In
Pooches in Pines volunteers and local foster families coordinated both urgent veterinary care and longer term placements to stabilize the pups and start their recovery. Capt. Adam Feiner, describing the condition of the dogs when they were found, said, "These animals were at or near death," according to Local 10.
Foster Homes Turned Permanent
Volunteers Paula and Paul Kordi took in Lana, now called Lulu, who weighed just four pounds when she arrived and has since reached a healthier weight of about 15 pounds, Local 10 reported. Sasha, renamed Luca, grew to roughly 20 pounds after being adopted by Ashley Conon and Catina Moretti, while Peaches, now Ginger, is thriving in Fort Lauderdale with adopter Alexa Goldman and three canine housemates. Foster families say the dogs' personalities have opened up as they regained strength and confidence.
Charges And Court Status
Authorities arrested 24-year-old Jaylen Holmes on multiple animal neglect and cruelty counts, including charges for confining animals without sufficient food or water and for tormenting or depriving an animal, as reported by CBS Miami. Prosecutors sought additional felony counts after veterinarians evaluated the dogs' condition, and Holmes appeared in Broward County court this month. Court records state he is barred from owning animals as a condition of his bond while the case moves forward.
How To Help
Pooches in Pines is continuing to seek foster homes, donations and supplies so it can keep taking in animals rescued in Broward County. Its website outlines how to give, volunteer or apply to foster. Details are available at Pooches in Pines.
