Across the United States, animal shelters are in crisis. Overcrowding, underfunding, and increasing animal intake rates have pushed many organizations past their limits, and the recent rescue of 40 Belgian Malinois from a New York City apartment serves as a heartbreaking example of what’s at stake.
In a coordinated effort, Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) and the ASPCA recently saved 40 Belgian Malinois from appalling conditions in a cramped NYC apartment. Ranging from tiny puppies to fully grown adults, these dogs had allegedly never experienced life outside the four walls of their confinement. Some were found hiding in closets and cupboards, crammed into small spaces without access to sunlight, fresh air, or basic necessities.
“These dogs have reportedly lived in total confinement for their entire lives,” said Tara Mercado, ACC’s Director of Behavior & Shelter Operations. “We found full-grown Malinois hidden in cabinets and crammed behind furniture.”
Despite already operating well beyond capacity, ACC’s dedicated teams mobilized immediately. Senior staff from ACC’s Behavior, Medical, Admissions, and Animal Rescue teams were onsite for the operation, ensuring the dogs were brought to safety with compassion and urgency. Initial medical evaluations are underway, and while none of the rescued dogs are yet available for adoption, efforts are ongoing to assess and treat their complex medical and behavioral needs.
“They’ve likely never touched grass, walked on a leash, or met a stranger. Every new sound, every human interaction, is overwhelming. But we’re already seeing glimmers of curiosity—and that gives us hope,” shared Dr. Biana Tamimi, Director of Shelter Medicine at ACC, while noting the extreme fear and undersocialization among the dogs.
The Belgian Malinois, a high-energy and highly intelligent breed, needs physical and mental stimulation. These dogs will require patient adopters or fosters, ideally with breed experience or access to specialized support.
This rescue underscores a much broader issue. Across its Queens, Manhattan, and Staten Island locations, ACC is currently caring for over 375 dogs. The Queens Care Center alone is housing over 200 dogs, nearly triple its intended capacity. This level of overcrowding is not unique to New York City. Shelters nationwide are facing similar challenges, where animals in need are arriving faster than they can be placed.
Jessica Vacarro, ACC’s Director of Placement, emphasized the urgency: “Several breed-specific rescues have already offered their assistance in finding homes. But with so many dogs in our care, we need the public’s help—now more than ever.”
How You Can Help Right Now
1. Foster or Adopt:
Opening your home to a dog in need—even temporarily—relieves shelter crowding and gives an animal the chance to decompress and thrive. You can apply HERE!
2. Visit an Adoption Center:
ACC is currently hosting a large-breed dog adoption special across all locations. Adoption hours run from 11 AM to 5 PM all weekend at:
• Queens: 1906 Flushing Ave, Ridgewood
• Manhattan: 323 East 109th Street
• Staten Island: 3139 Veterans Road West
3. Donate:
Every dollar helps fund medical exams, vaccinations, behavioral support, and care supplies for dogs in need. Donations can be made HERE!
4. Spread the Word:
Follow ACC on social media and share stories, photos, and updates to raise awareness. Your voice can help these dogs find the loving homes they deserve.
Adopt Don’t Shop!
