Sixteen dogs, rescued from an alleged dog-fighting ring in Smith County, are now looking for loving homes after months of recovery. The dogs were taken from a property on County Road 4136, just north of Tyler, where they had endured harsh conditions before being rescued in September 2024. The dogs, now in the care of Nicholas Pet Haven and the Smith County Animal Shelter, have made significant strides in their rehabilitation and are ready for adoption.
Dr. Gary Spence, a veterinarian who has been overseeing their medical treatment, shared that six of the dogs required serious attention upon arrival, with many suffering from injuries and neglect. Since their rescue, all 16 dogs have received spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and have gained back their health and strength. “They’re all ready for adoption,” said Dr. Spence, acknowledging the challenges the dogs faced but expressing confidence in their ability to thrive in new homes. “You’ve got to realize where these dogs came from and how they thought this kind of life was normal.”
Among the dogs, 11 are housed at the Smith County Animal Shelter, where they are making remarkable progress. Amber Greene, the shelter’s supervisor, described the dogs as “fat and healthy,” adding that their transformation has been nothing short of inspiring. Nine of the 11 dogs are even considered “Hero Dogs” for their unique contribution: they donate blood to the Tyler Animal Emergency Hospital to help other dogs in need.
“These dogs have gone through a horrible situation,” Greene said. “They’ve turned 180 degrees, and they’re now ready to become part of a family.”
Adoptions are open to the public, but applicants will undergo a background check and must participate in a meet-and-greet with any dogs they already have. The shelter is waiving adoption fees for the rest of January, encouraging potential pet owners to consider giving these resilient dogs a forever home.
“These guys certainly don’t deserve what they’ve been through,” said Dr. Spence, as one of the dogs he treated showered him with a grateful kiss.
These dogs’ journey from survival to potential family pets reflects both their resilience and the dedication of the shelter staff and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to give them a second chance at life.
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