Process for adopting out abandoned dogs in works

Hernando County Animal Services officials hope to announce their adoption process next week for at least 63 of the recently abandoned Shih Tzus.

However, one dog's fate is still in question in light of his biting one animal control worker last month and its continued dislike of being handled.

By Friday, the group has received more than 230 adoption applications, according to a press release and more are continuing to be accepted as animal services staff members continue screening potential pet owner candidates.

Liana Teague, code and animal services manager, said beginning Monday, veterinarians would begin spay, neuter and vaccinating the animals along with conducting health assessments to determine what each dog's need will be.

Although many are slated to be cleared for adoption, Teague said they will likely need follow-up medical care at the expense of the new pet owners.

"As a whole most of them are doing very well, but some better than others," Teague said, "and adoptors will still have to follow up with their own veterinarians. But at least we'll be able to give them idea of what they'll be facing."

One Shih Tzu that snapped at a animal services employee has yet to be groomed and is still in quarantine," Teague said. Although it is scheduled to be examined on Monday, she said whether it will be adopted, moved to another shelter or euthanized is still in question.

"We haven't made a final decision on that yet," Teague said. "He is still...fearful. He doesn't like to be handled."

The dogs were abandoned earlier this month on Holden Drive and Hilton Road in Brooksville and were found to have skin, yeast and bacterial infections along with feces in their hair and others with overgrown nails growing back into their paws.

Initially 63 dogs were found in the area and animal control workers found one more that had run off into the woods. Teague said there are five puppies while the rest range in ages up to 8 years old.

Meanwhile, just because dog lovers don't get their hands on an abandoned Shih Tzu doesn't mean they have to go home empty-handed.

Teague and other animal service officials are hoping animal lovers will also consider some other the other dogs and cats in need of a home.

"We have already had a couple other animals adopted from people who came to look at the Shih Tzus and took some other animals home instead," Teague said. "But it all depends on what you're looking for. We just wish we had this much interest from people in all of our animals everyday."

Those interested in adopting the dogs can fill out an application at 19450 Oliver St. or go online to www.co.hernando.fl.us.