TACOMA, Wash. — Thirty-seven pit bulls removed from a home during an animal cruelty investigation are nearly ready to be adopted.
The dogs were taken to the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County skinny and scared.
"They were malnourished, they were terrified,” said Victoria Gingrey, Communications Manager at Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County.
Dec. 18, Pierce County Sheriff’s Department deputies seized 49 dogs from Elmer Givens Jr.'s Tacoma home.
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Deputies discovered dozens of dogs locked in crates and found paraphernalia associated with dog fighting and breeding, including syringes, first-aid supplies and training tools.
Officers said the dogs had scars and were afraid of their owner.
Givens petitioned to get his dogs back, but a Pierce County judge said no.
Some of the pit bulls were taken to a local animal hospital where they're still staying.
The 37 others were taken to the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County. Thanks to quality care, and lots of love, they've transformed.
"Since they’ve been here all the dogs, puppies and adults, have been loving, friendly, sociable, and our volunteers and staff have done a great job of working with them and enriching them while they’ve been here,” said Gingrey.
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The dogs range in age from a few months old to five years old.
Once they're spayed and neutered, the dogs will be ready for a fresh start with a new family.
"Given the nature of how these dogs came to us, we just really want to make sure that they go to the right homes,” said Gingrey.
The adoption process will be thorough to ensure the dogs go to safe, loving homes.
The humane society is accepting applications, which includes a background check.