55 Huskies Rescued from Heartbreaking Conditions in Vermont Barn
Hidden away in a weathered barn on a quiet Vermont farm, nearly 60 huskies had been living in heartbreaking conditions. Puppies and adult dogs alike were crammed into small, filthy kennels or tethered to chains that barely let them move. The air was thick with the stench of ammonia from waste that had accumulated over time, and many of the dogs appeared thin, exhausted, and dehydrated. It was clear these animals had been waiting far too long for someone to notice—and step in.
When authorities from the Lamoille County Sheriff’s Office requested help, the ASPCA quickly responded. Their mission was urgent: every dog needed immediate care and a chance at a better life.
Many of the huskies had never known kindness or freedom. Puppies were gently carried to safety, while adults were guided out of the only home they had ever known. The rescue team documented their conditions and provided essential medical care. Veterinary teams began thorough exams, addressing both urgent health needs and the emotional trauma each dog had endured.
“We’ve had a couple of landowner citizen concerns that have been reported, and so the animal control officer for Hyde Park went out to do a welfare check on the animals,” said Aliena Gerhard, Lamoille County state’s attorney.
The owner had received tickets and warnings about how the dogs were being kept before the investigation eventually led to a search warrant, according to authorities. The investigation continues and animal cruelty charges are expected.
Several organizations came together to make the rescue possible, including Essex Veterinary Center, the Humane Society of Chittenden County, North Country Animal League, Sequist Animal Hospital, Lamoille Valley Veterinary Services, and Vermonters Against Animal Cruelty and Abandonment. State agencies, including the Vermont Division of Animal Welfare and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department, also helped.
For the huskies, they can now begin to put their hardships behind them. Although rehabilitation may take some time, many of the dogs are now beginning to decompress and will no doubt heal in the months to come.
They now have a second chance experience life with proper care, love, and attention.