93 of 116 Dogs from Summerville Hoarding Case Placed; 23 Still Need Homes, Chattooga County Animal Control Says

Chattooga County Animal Control Director Charlie Long issued the following statement:

As Director of Chattooga County Animal Control, I would like to address the recent animal hoarding case involving approximately 116 dogs at a residence in Summerville, Georgia.

Chattooga County Animal Control worked alongside the Summerville Police Department to safely remove these animals from the property. This was an overwhelming situation that required tremendous teamwork, compassion, dedication, and cooperation from everyone involved.

First and foremost, I want to express my sincere appreciation to the Summerville Police Department for their assistance and commitment throughout this operation.

I would also like to personally recognize and thank the rescue organizations that stepped forward to help us during this difficult situation:

Atlanta Humane Society / Operation Humane
Furkids
Trooper’s Treasures
Humane Society of Northeast Georgia
Lori Yonts and Sun-Kissed Acres Rescue

These organizations played an important role in helping us respond to this situation and ensuring these animals received the attention and care they desperately needed. Their willingness to step forward and assist our department means more than words can express.

Special Recognition and Appreciation

I would like to extend a very special thank-you to Stephanie Needham, Manager of Summerville Veterinary Clinic, who was instrumental in helping get this rescue effort underway. Stephanie used her many resources, connections, and relationships to help coordinate assistance for these animals. Her willingness to step forward, make calls, and get the ball rolling made a tremendous difference in this operation.

I also want to express my deepest gratitude to Dr. Bridget A. Hopkins and the entire team at Summerville Veterinary Clinic for their extraordinary dedication and hard work. Providing veterinary care for approximately 116 dogs was no small undertaking. Dr. Hopkins and her team worked diligently to ensure each animal received the necessary veterinary attention, vaccinations, and care before being transferred to rescue organizations.

I want to give special recognition to Derkis Graham and Amber Woods, members of my shelter team, for their dedication and hard work throughout this difficult operation. Their commitment to the animals and to our shelter has been invaluable.

I want to give particular recognition to Belle Jennings Templeton, who served as the on-site organizer and coordinator for the safe removal of the animals. Belle worked closely with our shelter team, law enforcement, and rescue partners to help coordinate the movement of approximately 116 dogs as safely and efficiently as possible. Her leadership, attention to detail, compassion, and countless volunteer hours made a tremendous difference throughout this demanding operation.

I also extend a heartfelt thank-you to Melissa O’Brien and Lori Yonts for their volunteer contributions and the time and dedication they have given in support of our shelter and these animals. Their generosity and willingness to help are deeply appreciated.

I would also like to sincerely thank the Chattooga County Public Works Department, especially Michael Warren and Randolph Vaughn, for the countless hours they spent assisting with and organizing this operation. Their coordination, teamwork, and willingness to take on whatever was needed helped the entire effort move as smoothly and safely as possible.

Where We Stand Today

Of the approximately 116 dogs removed from the property, 93 have been safely placed, thanks to the combined efforts of our department, veterinary professionals, and rescue partners. However, 23 dogs remain in the care of Chattooga County Animal Shelter, and our work is not finished.

These 23 dogs still need the opportunity to find a loving forever home or placement with a reputable rescue organization. We are asking our community and rescue partners to continue helping us find safe, appropriate placements for these remaining animals. Every one of these dogs deserves a chance at a better life.

A Message to Our Community

I would also like to respectfully remind our community of the importance of accurate information and transparency when it comes to situations of this nature. We understand that photographs and stories involving animals in difficult circumstances touch people’s hearts and often inspire them to give. However, we encourage anyone wishing to make a donation to verify that their contribution is going to an organization directly involved in the rescue, care, or placement of these animals.

Anyone wishing to make a donation to Chattooga County Animal Shelter can do so by scanning the QR code below or mailing their donation to 464 Red Oak Road, Summerville, Georgia 30747.

Our goal in sharing this information is simply to ensure that the generosity of our community reaches the animals and organizations it is intended to support.

Moving Forward Together

Cases like this are never easy. Behind every animal rescued are countless hours of hard work, difficult decisions, and people who genuinely care about animal welfare. At the end of the day, this was never about recognition or publicity. It was about 116 dogs who needed someone to stand up for them, and that is exactly what we came together to do.

I am incredibly proud of the teamwork demonstrated throughout this operation. I am grateful to the Summerville Police Department, our rescue partners, Stephanie Needham, Dr. Bridget A. Hopkins and the entire veterinary clinic team, my shelter staff, our dedicated volunteers, and the Chattooga County Public Works Department.

To everyone who played a part in helping these animals, whether through hands-on assistance, transportation, veterinary care, coordination, rescue placement, or encouragement, please know your efforts have not gone unnoticed.

Ninety-three dogs have already been given a new opportunity at life. Now, let us come together and make sure the remaining 23 receive that same chance.

Thank you to our community for your continued prayers, encouragement, and support of Chattooga County Animal Control.

Charlie Long
Director, Chattooga County Animal Control
464 Red Oak Road
Summerville, GA 30747
706-857-0679

Our mission remains the same: To protect those who cannot speak for themselves.