18 Dogs Rescued From Salisbury Property in Welfare Case

Salisbury, MD - On Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at approximately 11:50 a.m., Wicomico County Animal Control Officers responded to a property in the 300 block of West Naylor Mill Road in Salisbury, Maryland in reference to a complaint about the welfare of numerous dogs.

The complaint was first reported on Friday, August 29, 2026. Animal Control needed extra time to organize the right personnel and resources due to the number of animals involved.

When officers arrived at the property, they found two residents inside a shed with two adult dogs. As the investigation went on, more dogs were found running loose around the property.

Officers said the dogs were living in unsanitary conditions. Many of the animals appeared to be in poor physical shape.

Because of what they found, Animal Control called in help from the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office, Wicomico County Code Enforcement, and City of Salisbury Animal Control.

Officers from these agencies also went inside the home, where they found more dogs.

Inside the residence, officers again noted unsanitary conditions. Several more dogs there were also found to be in poor body condition.

Most of the dogs are Springer Spaniel mixes, and the group includes both puppies and adult dogs.

Seventeen dogs were seized from the property on September 1, 2026.

One more dog was trapped and recovered the next day, bringing the total number of dogs rescued to 18. Four more dogs are still on the loose, and crews are working to safely catch them.

All of the dogs that have been recovered are now in the care of the Humane Society of Wicomico County. They are getting vet checkups, treatment, food, and ongoing care.

Once the dogs are medically cleared and ready, they will be made available for adoption through the Humane Society of Wicomico County. Animal Control thanked the Sheriff's Office, Code Enforcement, and City of Salisbury Animal Control for their help during the investigation.

Officials say the teamwork between these agencies made it possible to safely remove the animals and get them the care they needed. Animal Control also thanked the staff and volunteers at the Humane Society of Wicomico County for stepping up to help care for so many dogs at once.

The Humane Society of Wicomico County is asking for monetary donations to help cover food, veterinary care, medications, and other needs for the dogs. Any donations will go directly toward their care and recovery.

The investigation into the conditions at the property is still ongoing.

Note: For transparency purposes