Emergency Rescue Underway for Hundreds of Dogs in Mississippi

Race to Save Hundreds of Dogs as Major Winter Storm Threatens Mississippi

Animal rescue groups are in a race against time to save more than 200 dogs from a rural Mississippi property before a powerful winter storm moves into the region.

The emergency rescue is unfolding near Tupelo, Mississippi, where conditions on the property have been described as dangerous and deeply neglectful. Advocates say the number of dogs in need could climb as high as 300.

Rescuers Describe ‘House of Horrors’

Paws of War, a New York–based nonprofit that rescues animals and pairs them with veterans and first responders, arrived on the property Wednesday at the request of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

Co-founder Robert Misseri described the scene as a “house of horrors,” citing skeletal remains of dogs in the yard, widespread feces, and animals living both inside and outside the home in poor conditions.

“It’s rewarding seeing them come off the property for the first time,” Misseri said. “But to think that they suffered up there for all these years in silence — it’s heartbreaking.”

Shelters Mobilize Across State Lines

As of Thursday evening, nine shelters had taken in roughly 60 dogs. Paws of War has transported 45 dogs back to New York, while 13 others were taken to the Northshore Humane Society in Covington, Louisiana.

Northshore Humane Society officials said many of the dogs showed signs of neglect, including facial scarring consistent with fighting over food, upper respiratory infections, skin issues, and possible heartworm disease.

Storm Adds Urgency to Rescue Effort

With a major winter storm approaching, rescuers are working around the clock to place the remaining dogs in shelters or foster homes. Northshore Humane Society officials said their aging facility struggles to retain heat, making foster placements critical — though they assured that all animals remaining onsite will be kept warm and safe.

Misseri said his team will not allow any dogs to be left outdoors during the storm and is urging additional shelters and rescue partners to step forward.

Call for Help

Paws of War says it urgently needs rescue partners, foster homes, financial donations for medical care and transport, and local volunteers to assist as the operation continues.