CUMRU TWP., Pa. – Nearly four dozen dogs were rescued from a recreational vehicle traveling through Reading Thursday.
The Animal Rescue League of Berks County said its animal protection department responded to the call, which alerted them to a “large volume of dogs in unsanitary conditions” in an RV. During the visit, a total of 44 dogs were removed from the vehicle, the ARL said.
In coordination with the Pennsylvania SPCA, the ARL was able to transfer 38 of the dogs overnight to PSPCA’s Chest Springs location. The remaining six dogs immediately went into foster care through the ARL, which says it is now at full capacity.
“While the ARL is fully equipped with the skilled personnel, facilities, and industry expertise to respond to cases like this at a moment’s notice, these situations are extremely taxing on our shelter and significantly disrupt the delicate system of our day-to-day operations,” said ARL CEO Ashley Mikulsky.
“We could not be more grateful to the Good Samaritan who alerted us to this case and to PSPCA for stepping in to help us at a moment’s notice,” Mikulsky said. “Yesterday would not have been possible without interagency collaboration and the support of our community which funds the ARL’s dedicated Department of Animal Protection.”
There is an investigation into case, the ARL said.
As it cares for the influx of additional dogs, the ARL is asking for the public’s help.
Volunteer: The rescue says it is already short-staffed and needs assistance with laundry, cleaning, food preparation and other support tasks for the next few weeks. Those who are interested should fill out a volunteer application.
Donate: The ARL says the animals will need vaccines and spay/neuter surgeries, as well as the standard care of food, housing resources, and other needs. Its current most-needed item for donation is bath or beach towels. Donations can be dropped off any time at the ARL’s orange donation shed at 58 Kennel Road. Donations can also be made online or by emailing the ARL.