Animal advocates rush to rescue more than 200 dogs in Mississippi

Aid groups and shelters are removing over 200 dogs from a rural Tupelo property ahead of a forecasted winter storm; dozens have been moved to shelters and foster networks.

Animal welfare groups are removing more than 200 dogs from a rural property near Tupelo, Mississippi, ahead of a forecasted winter storm. The effort is led in part by Paws of War, a New York nonprofit asked by local law enforcement to help rehome the animals. Several shelters and humane societies have taken dogs and teams have transported animals to nearby and out-of-state facilities. Rescuers report many animals show signs of neglect and are receiving medical attention. Known details: - Lee County Sheriff's Office asked Paws of War to assist with rehoming animals from a property near Tupelo. - As of Thursday evening, nine shelters had taken about 60 dogs and Paws of War had transported 45 to New York. - Rescuers report many dogs show signs of neglect; teams are still searching for additional animals and the total needing rescue could reach 300. Summary: Volunteers and shelters continue moving animals into shelters and foster care while teams search for dogs that ran off. Organizations involved say they are working to place remaining animals before the storm; further legal or procedural steps were not specified and are undetermined at this time.