A viral video has revealed the moment a rescue team walked into a hoarder’s home to discover 30 dogs living in squalid conditions.
The footage, shared on Instagram by Sarama, a nonprofit animal rescue and sanctuary based in New Jersey (@saramaanimalrescue), said that the homeowner was “dying of cancer and in hospice,” and had been isolating for years after the death of her husband. The caption added that the family “had no idea about the dogs or the condition of the house.”
The animals—who appear to be a mix of papillons and a Sheltie—were described as “extremely overwhelmed.” The rescue team said that the dogs had likely never received veterinary care.
Instagram/@saramaanimalrescue
Research has found that hoarded dogs display higher levels of fear, attachment difficulties, and repetitive behaviors. In contrast, the canines tend to show lower levels of aggression, rivalry with other dogs, trainability, and excitability.
“The ones we pulled today are older and need blood work and dentals in the very least,” the caption noted.
The video showed dozens of dogs running throughout the home, with floors covered in dirt and what appeared to be feces. The backyard was in a similarly unsanitary state.
Shelter Animals Count says that an estimated 250,000 animals annually are found to be victims of animal hoarding, with most enduring unsafe and unhygienic living conditions.
Understanding Animal Hoarding
Newsweek spoke with Dr. Justine Wilkinson, an environmental health officer, who explained the psychological roots of animal hoarding.
“People who hoard animals often report living in a chaotic domestic environment during childhood, with neglectful, unstable, or inconsistent caregivers,” Wilkinson said. “They also report relying on animals during childhood, suggesting that pets provided attachment, security, and companionship without fear of rejection.”
Wilkinson added that attachment theory helps explain the behavior: “People with insecure attachment styles may compensate by seeking stable relationships with animals, who provide affection, child substitutes, and nonjudgmental companionship.”
Social Media Reacts
The disturbing video quickly gained traction online, with many viewers expressing both horror and gratitude for the rescue team’s efforts.
“So horrific, thank you for being their hero. Our girl is settling in and so grateful. Let’s get the rest placed!” one commenter wrote.
Another added: “Oh wow, I have no words. Thank you for stepping in and saving these animals.”
Others simply called the situation “a nightmare.”
The rescued dogs are now receiving veterinary evaluations, and the team is working to find them safe foster placements.
Newsweek is waiting for the charity to comment.