This makes me so sad to hear about and that I have seen with my own eyes. I have seen many many pictures of what all of those precious babies had to go through and i couldnt imagine. I work at Paws Humane in Columbus, Ga and we have some of those sweet babies here. I do know of atleast five of them on our adoption floor right now. They are so sweet and they just want to be loved. I feel like they know that there safe here, and they will be taken care of like they needed to be in the first place. Please everyone open your heart and home to a homeless animal. If you come across on of these babies that have had it bad to turn your nose up. All they want is a simple sweet word or pat on the head. thanks for reading

I read that the ASPCA took 6 dogs from this bust. Where are the others?

A few of the Clarksdale animals can be seen on www.atlantahumane.org and http://www.atlantahumane.org/adoption/sponsor_a_pet.asp I'm sure someone there can answer more detailed questions. Thanks for asking about our precious animals! I pray every night that they will find loving homes!

I live in Clarksdale and pass the shelter several times a week. I am saddened by how paid workers and volunteers have neglected it and the animals. God bless ASPCA for the rescue. I was an original board member, resigned years ago due to careless spending of donations and purchase of awful, over-priced building to use as shelter. The shelter was so bad and overcrowded, and after a few times in there, decided my health was more important than the filth and odor ...could not breathe. Animal control needs to be investigated as well as volunteers and/or paid workers who manned the shelter. I am a loving pet owner (1 dog and 2 cats) who are pampered.

Congratulations to my sister, Robin Dilworth who is the new Director of the Clarksdale Shelter. People, they need your financial support. That is one of the things that caused this situation. The previous Director didn't want to kill any animals, and this was the result. Pray that Robin has the wisdom to do what needs to be done, and the fortitude to do it. I am with you sis. Your brother Michael...1-323-I-EAT-RAW.

I fear that this may be the same story one would write about our shelter here in Clinton, Il.. The lady that runs the shelter does try, but due to funding she is limited to one assistant, and a very small shelter. I have offered, and left her my name and phone number, to volunteer to help, but she has never called me. It's sad. I would love to work for the ASCPA. Guess I need to see what kind of degree is needed, and see if they will hire me.

I am from MS but I live in Atlanta now and I heard about this situation from MS-FACT just a few days ago. I read that some of these animals will be arriving in Atlanta. When will they get here and when will they be available for adopting?

Bravo to Clarksdale, MS for realizing they had an overwhelming problem that needed to be addressed, and then calling in the troops. Whomever made the initial call should be applauded for understanding the need for outside help. Too much animal hoarding is happening these days, and we should be grateful that there is one less 'no-kill' shelter overflowing with helpless and injured animals. Thankfully there is a new director now that understands the need for compassion for these animals, because the last one was apparently way to overwhelmed to do an effective job (voluntary or paid), yet refused to step aside soon enough. It never hurts to ask for help, and does not make you less of a person for doing so. Bless the ASPCA, an amazing organization who swooped in and took action. This is why you are my charity of choice. Please realize that the money does end up going directly towards animal care, whether is is used for administrative costs, transportation, medical, or things as basic as food and shelter for the innocent animals. So, please understand that the ASPCA cannot just give every penny back to us in free adoptions and the like. It is a business and has to continue to run as such. If it were not for them, Clarksdale's neglected animals would still be wallowing in their own feces, urine, cuts, bites, pain, mange, freezing cold, excessive heat, and just plain misery. So yes, I'll say that the ASPCA is using my donated funds correctly... you?

Why does a monthly donator have to pay $300.00 to help give a dog a loving home. I have tried to adopt a dog many times and the costs are outragous. If I didn't donate, I could afford a dog. I live on 6 acreas and wanted a big dog and lab mix type that was not a puppy. I preferr an older pet. I read above that older pets are hard to place..why is so expensive to adopt an older pet if that is the case? Remember I donate monthly $25.00...I think I should get a discount and help with giving an older large dog a wonderful home...Just a thought to put out there.

How can we possibly see the pics of these animals and where they each went so it would be possible to go to adopt one or two? Please advise

I used to live in Clarksdale, MS, and I even adopted a cat from the Shelter there. I think the people there tried to do the best they could with the resources they had, but it was just too overwhelming. I am glad these animals are now being given a second chance in other communities.

I have to say that I was shocked by the fact that the ASPCA just expects smaller shelters to take on these animals and offers no monetary assitance or even do routine vet care for the animals before they are shipped off. I have been a long time supporter of ASPCA, HSUS and NSAL. I adopted my dog from North Shore 15 years ago. Best Christmas present ever the adoption fee was 45.00. I know it costs a lot to shelter these animals but they might stand a better chance of finding a permanent home if the adoption costs were not so high. Someone also needs to look into the fact that a lot of the animals on Petfinder are actually back yard breeders who just put their puppies up on Petfinder and charge $300.People think they are donating to help a shelter and they're acutally just giving money to the people who make the situation worse. I think ASCPA needs to address alot of the questions these posts have brought up.

When I get out of High scool, I'm going to become an ASPCA Officer. I don't think any animal should be treated that way because, they are defenseless. I WILL BE THIER VOICE!

I donate monthly to the ASPCA, and I truly thought that my monthly donation went to the care and medical cost to situations just like this. The association even contacted me after the 8 state shut down of fighting dogs to get me to raise my donation to $25.00 a month. Somebody from the organization better email me the reason why these shelters have to pay anything for these dogs and cats that they are taking. I think I have been taken...I thought my money was going to these situationa and I read other comments that my money is going to orgaizational cost inside the main office, not directly to the amnimal medical and care costs. Shame on you ASPCA if this is happening. I will stop my donation and donate locally if this is true. I want the financial records published on where the money is being spent. I love what this orgaization stands for ..now I questions their practices and what they are doing with my money. You have my email address all ready on record..somebody better have some answers for comments stated by other people and in this one. Please contact me by email.

While reading these comments, I've reflected back on the many times the ASPCA has stepped in to help/rescue shelters all over. I have also read where there are questions about how things can get so out of control at these shelters. There are so many animals that are neglected, abused, or unwanted and shelters are full. I know our local humane society will tell you they have no more room to take an animal in, but there are animals that are just dropped off there every day. They take them in and do the best they can humanly do. We as a public society are responsible for this happening. They are only there to do what they can to help. I know you are a huge organization with a huge ontaking in a vast area. I appreciate all you are doing to help these victims (because that is what they are). When there is so much cruelty going on all over the place, it is impossible to be at every site at the same time. I live in MS and have heard so much cruelty going on recently in my state. I am horrified and the same time relieved that there are organizations like yours who step in and take control. In reading the comment about the donations being utilized in the office, I find it impossible to believe that it all is being used for just that location. It takes money and time to go into all of these areas and use the lawful means to take control. Your organization would not be able to do this without money from donations. In reading the comment about pet adoptions costing so much, they do not take into account that the shelter has to have funds in which to offer the animals medical expenses, as well as, food. I, too, have looked into adopting a pet but can not afford it. It is under the discretion of the shelter as to how much is charged for adption and that is usually based on the expenses of the animals and maintaining the shelter. I personally am one person who pledges each month and am proud to do so. I only wish I could do more. I am also one who cannot watch your commercials or others from other organizations without crying, and I have to end up turning them off. Please continue doing the great work and keep on fighting for tougher laws for these precious animals.

looking for a puppy

The role of the the ASPCA Field Investigations and Response Team who is made up of ASPCA experts, including veterinarians, veterinary technicians, humane law enforcement agents, disaster responders and sheltering professionals is always to lend expertise during large-scale animal rescues. The coordination, rescue, examine and care for sick animals while simultaneously collecting and processing on-site evidence, which helps build strong criminal cases against abusers, shelter and transport. This team collaborates with other shelters and rescues throughout the country to save animals in emergency situations. Special Thanks to the following for the collective efforts of rescuing, sheltering and transporting the animals across the country for their chance to find loving permanent homes: Essential medical aid has been provided by a veterinary team from Mississippi State University, led by Dr. Phillip Bushby, as well as local veterinarians Dr. Andrea Marble, Animal Medical Clinic; Dr. Jody Swartzfarger, Lawndale Pet Hospital; Dr. Wayne Adams, Adams Vet Clinic; and Dr. Rebecca Coleman. The Atlanta Humane Society is transporting at least 100 animals to Georgia, and countless other shelters, individuals and organizations are offering their critical support in the rescue and temporary housing of the animals, including: Anna Ware of Holland M. Ware Foundation Mississippi State Animal Response Team Mississippi Animal Rescue League, MS Greg Norred with Norred & Associates Tailwaggers for Life, MS Jane Berry of Sterile Feral, GA PAWS Humane, GA Oxford-Lafayette Humane Society, MS Tampa Bay SPCA, FL Broward County Humane, FL Delaware Humane Association, DE Kent County SPCA, DE White River Animal Rescue, VT Northern New England Dog Rescue, VT Bolivar County Animal Shelter, MS Louisiana SPCA, LA Capital Area Humane Society, OH Petfinder

ASPCA and other animal welfare groups, please help the animals in the Purvis, MS area. I was shocked a year ago, when I transported a homeless puppy from there, that there is NO local animal control. Individual volunteers try to help the stray animals (which, many times, are simply shot), but are no match for the problem. It is horrible to realize that such unaddressed animal suffering is going on in the USA.

how can i help without a ceirted card

i think that the picture that are shown on the TV are a disgrace i find it hard to watch. i think you can get the message out in another way. please stop showing those pictures.

Hi there, I think what you people do is wonderful, I see your commercials, and it gets me cry, because I can't believe that people can be so mean to a helpless animal, if they can be mean to an animal, then they could be mean to a person, that's why I'm proud to be a member of such a great organization. Keep up the good work.

I have to tell you I maybe oly 14 I have a big heart for animals and what you guys are doin g for theses animals is really great of you. I wish to be doing the same thing one day. Thank you

The ASPCA does great things, but I'm just wondering how the conditions got so bad at that shelter before anyone stepped in. How could no one be aware this was going on there?

i hope you can save some animals in china

A.S.P.C.A.team are doing a wonderful job here, I have been working with this team all weekend. Many over the years have made many complaints to the city, the county, and others, but without success. And just so people will know..help was refused time and time again by the volunteer director from many people over the years and she managed to drive people away..a group of wonderful ladies who I have great joy in working with here jumped on this during a cold snap and decided we would not be driven away anymore that this was stopping. IN Defense of animals or I.D.A. going in shooting video is what has made this all happen. We owe them much gratitude! Thank you ASPCA for coming for helping in this cruel, cruel situation. You all do an amazing job..let me assure you of one thing..THIS WILL NEVER HAPPEN AGAIN! new word here in Clarksdale..ACCOUNTABLE, ACCOUNTABLE ACCOUNTABLE.

Thank God sissy and others took action and saved these babies. God will bless you!

Thank you for responding. I trust that the way your dispatcher responded will encourage more people who are overwhelmed to come forward. That would be a "win" for the animals.

I just wanted to say thank you for what you guys are doing to save the lives of these innocent animals. Never give up in a situation to save a life. Keep up the good work.

How could this happen in a SHELTER, certainly known by the local politicians?

Why does ASPCA endorse,those horrible plastic dog houses? Anyone who lives in a cold climate, should never use those for an outside dog, but because the ASPCA has their name on them, too many people are using them,and they are not warm!

ASPCA...without you, there would be no hope for those helpless animals. I thank you, for saving each and every one of the animals and finding new homes for them. You are greatly appreciated. :)

We adopted a cat from a shelter and named her Lily. My sis and I love her. She is the best cat in the whole wide world.

yes please post the names of the shelters and rescue who toook in the animals thanks

As one of the persons involved in obtaining help for these animals, i must say that the response is wonderful from all willing to help, however you must understand that ASPCA members were very unorganized upon arrival and while many veterinarians donated their services, there were ones that were hired by ASPCA. Many animals continued to suffer for several days after their arrival. I agree if you want to donate, please donate to the shelters and organizations that actually took in animals. Those animals were extremely neglected and i must admire the City of Clarksdale for asking for help when the former manager walked away fro0m the problem. I do admire the ASPCA don't get me wrong, but the misleadinf information to generate donations isnot right. PLease post alist of those shelters and rescues that are taking in animals so that we can donate to them

I believe that the ASPCA does more work for the neglected animals than most people. The way the animals are abandoned or beaten is just plain wrong. the ASPCA helps the animals get the care they need. They have been my roll mottles for years.

I think that ASPCA is a really great American Society for abandoned animals that need help to stay safe and need homes.

u guys are amasing.....i worship the aspca..good job...me and my friends are starting a fundraiser 4 u

Great job ASPCA. Thank you.

Instead of criticizing ASPCA, why not blame the people of Clarksdale, its politicians and other locals who create these sad situations by sticking their heads in the sand and ignoring the animals. Mississippi doesn't even have a felony cruelty to animals law and it's the only state in the South that doesn't.

I had the same questions. Our group just received an e-mail asking us to help with this situation. We are very small, and might be able to take 1 or 2 cats, but there's no way we can afford to fly the kitties to San Francisco. I would also be reluctant to ask any of my foster homes to take in unvaccinated, unaltered animals with potentially contagious diseases, about whom we have no knowledge. I'm sure the ASPCA is also overwhelmed with animals, but based on the numbers they've provided, it would seem that they aren't taking any of the animals in themselves. Given that, and their comparatively vast financial resources and ability to fundraise nationally, couldn't they at least provide basic medical services (vaccines, deworming, spay/neuter, etc.), to help offset the long-term costs of providing care the other rescues will incur? Here, adult animals generally take several months to a year to place, so the ASPCA is asking us to take on a huge financial burden, as well as potentially turn away local animals we might not have room for later. Expecting us to pay all the costs we would for a local animal (a minimum of about $300 here), plus transportation, seems a bit much, and makes it impossible for our group to help, even though we wish we could.

People still don't get it. Your local rescue is in the trenches every day, overwhelmed by a difficult job and no funding. Check out Charity Navigator and see the millions going to salaries and assets. A fraction of that $$$ could have established spay/neuter clinics. HSUS just bought stock in Steak N Shake and Jack in the Box. Wake up people--support your local no-kill shelter.

While the ASPCA removed the animals and are seeking funding for their care, why is the ASPCA asking for other rescues and shelters to take over 300 dogs and 50 cats, and to foot the bill for their spay/neuter, vaccinations and medical treatment?

As an animal lover and Clarksdale being my hometown where I grew up, my heart is just broken for the animals. We just went through this same situation here in Memphis where I live now. I know that most people mean well when trying to help, but you have to realize that sometimes there are circumstances that force you not to do as much as you would like. As a ASPCA annual supporter I hope that you can help to rectify the situation and bring these sweet babies to a better place.

Ditto on the question about why the animals will not be s/n prior to being taken by other groups OR the ASPCA paying for receiving shelters to s/n. The ASPCA has an amazing public visibility and collects donations right and left, so let's see some of that shared with the organizations actually TAKING the animals. In order to receive "free" transportation, a shelter must agree to take at least 50 animals. Many smaller shelters could step up and take a few animals, but are not in a position to pay for transportation and should not be expected to pay for urgent medical care and s/n.

While the situation clearly got out of hand, the leadership at the Clarksdale Animal Shelter should be recognized for making the very brave decision to do the right thing and come forward for help from ASPCA and other shelters. Some shelters hide in shame when things like this happen, hoping to avoid notice by the media, which only furthers the problem. Here's hoping they can gain the knowledge to avoid this horrible situation again.

People seem to be under the impression that the ASPCA (or HSUS for that matter) take in animals-- they do not. They do the raids, get the glory, and then get the small rescues and shelter to take the animals and care for them. Whenever in the past we have been involved with anything either of the "Big Two" touched, we saw no financial assistance at all. We would love to help by taking a few animals, but we cannot afford the transportation, vetting and long term care these animals are rumored to need. Nevertheless, ASPCA will get money for these dogs/cats, which will never be spent on actually caring for them after the initial seizure.