SHARPTOWN, Maryland — More than 50 animals were rescued from a Wicomico County property this week after authorities discovered what they describe as unsafe and unsanitary living conditions during the execution of a search warrant.
According to a joint statement from the Humane Society of Wicomico County, Wicomico County Animal Control, City of Salisbury Animal Control, and the Wicomico County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were serving a search warrant on State Street in Sharptown on July 17 when they requested assistance from animal control officers after encountering numerous animals on the property.
Investigators found 43 dogs of various breeds—including Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Boxers, Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, and Jack Russell Terriers—being housed inside a pole barn. Authorities said the animals were living in filthy conditions, lacked adequate access to water, and were exposed to dangerous summer temperatures.
Officials also reported a strong ammonia odor inside the structure, an indication that waste had accumulated over an extended period and that the animals had been living in unclean conditions for some time.
Due to concerns for their health and welfare, authorities removed a total of 52 animals, including 43 dogs, three cats, five chickens, and one turtle. The animals were transported to the Humane Society of Wicomico County, where shelter staff, volunteers, and veterinarians worked late into the evening conducting medical evaluations and beginning treatment.
The Humane Society said the majority of the animals have since been voluntarily surrendered to the shelter. Once they complete medical examinations and receive any necessary care, they are expected to become available for adoption.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say criminal charges are pending, though no additional details have been released.
The Humane Society temporarily closed Friday afternoon while staff responded to the large-scale rescue. In a message to the public, the organization asked residents not to call or visit the shelter seeking to meet the rescued dogs until evaluations and treatment have been completed.
The sudden arrival of more than 50 animals has pushed the shelter well beyond its normal capacity. Shelter officials are asking the community to help by making monetary donations, purchasing supplies from the Humane Society’s wish lists, or adopting or fostering animals already in the shelter’s care to create space for the rescued dogs as they recover.
Authorities say additional information will be released as the investigation progresses.
