A malnourished and pregnant dog who was one of about 120 rescued from a South Jersey dogfighting operation last month, now named Janet Jackson, is recovering with her pups at a foster home.
The Humane Society, a national animal welfare non-profit, worked with law enforcement to locate and seize the pets. Search warrants were executed at multiple locations in Cumberland County on April 3. Dogs and puppies were found in poor conditions in pens, cages or attached to chains in multiple buildings and outdoors on a cold and rainy day, investigators said.
Many of the dogs had severe scarring and untreated wounds. One even had a missing leg and his remaining paw was mangled, they said.
Janet Jackson was underweight and pregnant with various scars when she was found. She was then transported to an emergency shelter along with the other severely injured dogs.
She has since given birth to six puppies and she and the puppies are being cared for at a foster home. Once they are healthy enough, they will be available for adoption through the Virginia-based Lucky Dog Animal Rescue.
“These dogs have had a hard life and have been through a great deal in terms of trauma and injuries—some have a long road ahead. It brings it all into perspective as we start to get to see them settle into homes and relax on a couch, probably for the first time in their lives,” said Adam Parascandola, animal rescue team vice president for the Humane Society of the United States. “It’s a striking contrast from the scarcity, fear and pain that is all too familiar to dogs forced to participate in dogfighting.”
An alleged ringleader, Bruce “Hollywood” Low, Jr., and seven others are facing charges in connection to officials’ raid of the dogfighting ring.
Janet Jackson enjoys playing with her tennis ball, napping on the couch, being pet by her foster family, and nuzzling her puppies who have started to become active and playful.
Many of the dogs rescued are still under the care of the Humane Society, while others have been transferred to shelters and rescue partners.
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Nicolas Fernandes may be reached at nfernandes@njadvancemedia.com.
