Acting on a citizen complaint, members of the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Unit on Tuesday morning responded to 7256 Highway 162 in the Hollywood area, where dozens of dogs were being kept outside and inside a residence that was set up as a dog rescue operation. The homeowner had been hospitalized and was unable to care for the dogs.
Based on the conditions that the dogs were in and the lack of proper care, the Sheriff’s Office obtained a search warrant for the property and worked throughout the day to seize approximately 57 dogs of various breeds and sizes. The Charleston Police Department, Mount Pleasant Police Department, Charleston Animal Society, Hallie Hill Animal Sanctuary, and Pet Helpers assisted in this effort.
The condition of the dogs is being assessed, and the authorities involved worked to find housing for the animals at various organizations, primarily the Charleston Animal Society. No criminal charges have been filed at this time. The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone who has concerns about the condition or care of pets is asked to contact law enforcement rather than taking direct action. CCSO’s Animal Control Unit is specially trained to handle such incidents. In Charleston County, call dispatch at 843-743-7200.