KATV Channel 7 - The Spirit of Arkansas: Dozens of Dogs Leaving AR Sanctuary

Nearly a hundred dogs that have been living at a no kill animal sanctuary in Pope County will soon have a new home.  Early Monday morning  JP Ranch and Rescue is sending 88 dogs to a no kill rescue organization in New York where they will stay until they can be adopted.

A Blackwell couple started rescuing the pups four years ago after a tornado left many of them homeless.

JP Ranch and Rescue says about 30 dogs will stay in Pope County but because of an illness in the family the rest are being sent to another group. Veterinary crews were on site Sunday getting them ready to travel.

Dr. Corry Key with Southwind Animal Hospital said, "There are any words to describe how amazing is. Is because there are parts of the country that have a pet shortage and we can take the animals here that don't have homes and send them up there and maybe some of the animals will get new dogs for Christmas."

Pets Alive has agreed to take all 88 dogs into both of their locations in New York-Pets Alive Animal Sanctuary in Middletown, NY, and Pets Alive Westchester in Elmsford NY.    Southwind Animal Hospital will be providing a person to act as dog handler and ensure the safety of the dogs during the trip to the Pets Alive locations in New York.

"All the dogs are so wonderfully happy, affectionate and in good condition," says Kerry Clair, Pets Alive Executive Director. "These dogs will be easy to place at our facilities in New York.  While this is a massive undertaking for any rescue (to step in and help this many dogs at one time), we are glad that they are in good condition and that we have been assisted in this mission by some great organizations."

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