DADE COUNTY, Ga. (WDEF) — Dade County officials rescued more than 260 animals from a large-scale hoarding situation on Tuesday, July 1, 2025.
The rescue began around 12:00 p.m. and continued into the early hours of Wednesday, with crews working until 2 a.m. to remove animals from what authorities described as “deplorable conditions.”
Unfortunately, several deceased animals were also found inside the home.
“Animal hoarding is a horrendous situation—not only for the animals involved but for the communities affected. This is the fifth hoarding case we’ve seen in just two weeks, and by far the most severe. We are incredibly grateful to all the agencies, veterinarians, and volunteers who answered the call and worked tirelessly through the night. Their efforts saved hundreds of animal lives.”
-Don Townsend, County Executive
The Georgia Department of Agriculture is leading the ongoing investigation.
Dade County encourages residents to report suspected hoarding or animal cruelty to the proper authorities.
Further updates will be shared by the Georgia Department of Agriculture as the case develops.
