ST. GABRIEL, La. — Authorities are investigating distressing conditions at the St. Gabriel Animal Hospital following reports from two non-profit rescue groups concerning the well-being of numerous dogs housed there. Upon their arrival, police discovered over 30 dogs, many malnourished and in poor health, prompting immediate action to safeguard the animals.
Describing the scene, Alex Dondeville, a member of one of the rescue teams, noted that the dogs exhibited signs of abandonment and severe distress. “These animals have been relying on each other for comfort and have developed a strong distrust of humans due to their circumstances. They haven’t had a consistent caregiver,” he explained.
Dr. Gary Sod, the hospital’s owner, was unavailable for commentary as inquiries were made. The rescued dogs have since been placed in the care of volunteers Alex, Rebeckah, and Courtney, who recalled a traumatic experience during the rescue operation. “The stench was unbearable,” said Courtney Turner from Licking for Love, describing the conditions inside the facility. “It felt as if the urine could burn your eyes.”
Initial discoveries included several dogs found deceased, some discarded in a garbage bin and others improperly stored in a freezer. Dondeville recounted witnessing alarming neglect within the hospital, stating that equipment and medications were left unsecured, raising serious safety concerns.
St. Gabriel Police Chief Kevin Ambeau confirmed that he had not yet engaged with Dr. Sod but emphasized the urgency of addressing the situation. One of the rescue representatives, Rutherford, expressed the collective mission of the rescuers: to ensure the dogs receive proper care and ultimately to find them loving homes. “Our focus was on how to support each other in getting these dogs to safety. There was no division over who would take which animal,” he said.
The partnership among the rescuers was evident, as they collaborated with a singular purpose in mind—the well-being of the dogs. As these animals begin to receive veterinary attention, volunteers are working tirelessly to secure foster homes.
Rutherford underscored the most crucial aspect of their mission: “At the end of the day, these dogs are what matter.” The situation has highlighted the need for vigilance in animal welfare and the importance of community engagement in rescuing neglected animals.
Efforts will now focus on providing necessary medical treatment to the rescued dogs and finding them loving homes, ensuring they never experience such neglect again.
