Rescue Efforts Recover Dozens of Neglected Dogs from Brooklyn Hoarder Home

Dozens of neglected dogs, many of them suffering from severe matting and filth, have been rescued from a gruesome situation inside a Brooklyn home. Animal rescuers found 115 dogs overall, including five that had already died, along with the elderly owner, who was also dead inside the house.

The home, located in Mill Basin, was characterized by overwhelming squalor, with piles of trash and debris. The deceased owner, 73-year-old Eileen Horn, was discovered among the mess, with neighbors describing her residence as a house of horrors where electricity had been absent for some time.

Rescue teams began working until late Friday, carefully shaving and cleaning the dogs, many of whom were born in the filth and had never experienced natural light. One of the dogs, a five-year-old terrier mix named Mercedes, gave birth to a dead puppy during the rescue, a traumatic event attributed to stress. Another small dog, Barbie, a four-year-old Shih Tzu-Japanese Chin mix, showed significant improvement, changing from yellowish fur to a cream color after grooming.

Many of the dogs were so matted that they required anesthesia for shaving, as it was too painful otherwise. Despite their ordeal, the dogs displayed surprisingly gentle behavior, cooperating well with rescuers. “They will be able to come around with some love and care,” said Jennifer Brooks, president of NYC Second Chance Rescue.

As the dogs recover in shelters, rescue workers emphasize that with TLC, the animals can heal from their traumatic experience. Anyone interested in fostering can visit nycscr.org to apply.