Rescue group robbed, dogs stolen

A dog rescue group is looking for help after someone robbed their Doggie Care Center in Johnson City, Tenn.

The group, led by Tammara Josselyn, keeps all its rescue animals in the center while they are nursed back to health so they can be adopted. Josselyn’s niece, who lives in an apartment above the center, came down to check on the dogs when they wouldn’t top barking in the middle of the night.

She was confronted by the robbers, one of whom pulled a knife and cut her. The woman was treated at a nearby hospital. The robbers made of with 14 dogs. Twelve were dobermans, one was a labrador retriever and one was a miniature pinscher. Some of the dogs have special medical needs.

Animal advocates in the area fear the robbery could be the work of a local dogfighting ring. There has been a strong of break-ins at shelters recently, with thieves taking large breeds known to be used by dogfighters, along with declawed cats, puppies and small dogs.

The small animals are used as bait to test the larger dogs’ fighting instincts. They are often mauled and killed. As the owner of a miniature pinscher mix, this story is particularly disturbing to me.

Supporters have set up a Web site with the full story along with photos and contact information for anyone who might be able to help bring these dogs home.

- Staff Writer Bryan Dean

Thank you for joining our conversation on Pet Show Blog. We encourage your discussion but ask that you stay within the bounds of our commenting and posting policy.