Abandoned & Abused Dogs Adopted Out

FORT WORTH (CBSDFW.COM) - Most of the Maltese dogs that were abandoned on a North Texas rural road in early October have found new loving homes, according to the Humane Society of Flower Mound.

The 51 dogs were severely neglected and police speculated they were dumped as a result of a new Texas law requiring inspection and licensing of commercial breeders.

All of the dogs were released to local rescue groups and many have since been adopted out.

Veterinarians and groomers tended to the dogs, some of which had broken bones, tooth decay, mammary tumors, cauliflower ears, and staph infections.

Those with severe fear and anxiety issues were not ready to be adopted out immediately.

Below is a video showing the progress and current condition of the animals:

Stacy Smith of HSFM helped place the dogs with multiple non-profit rescue organizations.

"These dogs spent their lives as the mothers and fathers of puppies you purchase in pet stores, online, or at trade days. They live their entire lives in filthy cages. A puppy purchased from one of those sources supports the puppy mill industry and this kind of cruelty. If you want to make sure you aren't contributing to it...adopt your next pet from a shelter."

Meanwhile, Flower Mound police continue to investigate the case and several organizations are offering rewards of up to $6,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the persons responsible for abandoning these dogs and another group of 41 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels the same week in rural Denton County.