Shocking dog rescue in Rochester: 120 animals saved from hoarding situation

Rochester, N.Y. (WHAM) — Lollypop Farm Humane Law Enforcement removed 120 dogs from a home in the city's Maplewood neighborhood Tuesday.

Neighbors said they're shocked and relieved after a house on Leopard Street was raided by officers from the Humane Society of Greater Rochester.

BACKGROUND: 120 dogs seized from Rochester home

One neighbor, who asked to remain anonymous, said she "was heartbroken to see the crates coming out non-stop," adding that she "could smell the home from outside."

Reno DiDomenico, vice president of law enforcement at the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, said investigators had been working with the homeowner for months.

In continuance of an investigation into hoarding and complaints of excessive dogs, officers executed a search warrant at the home with assistance from other law enforcement agencies. There, officers made the shocking discovery.

"Most of the house was full of feces," said DiDomenico. "The dogs that were severely matted or had dirty fur. At that point, we decided we were going to remove those animals. We’re hoping to get them turned over to us so that we can then find them homes and that’s the ultimate goal here at the Humane Society: the care of animals."

Neighbor Roberto Rivera said he'd heard the dogs for years. As officers in hazmat gear worked to safely recover the animals, he watched from down the street.

"Now, it’s calm," said Rivera. "There’s no more yelling. I can come outside, and I can bring my dog outside and my dog won’t be lifting her ears, thinking, 'Where do I go?'”

"Everybody in the neighborhood that I spoke to complained about it," said one anonymous neighbor.

It is unclear if any charges will be filed against the homeowner.

The recovered dogs range from adults to puppies that are only weeks old. They are not up for adoption right now, but Lollypop Farm is seeking donations and supplies to help care for the pets while they're on the road to recovery.

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