Police rescue 56 animals from severe hoarding conditions in Madrid

The Municipal Police of Madrid have rescued an astounding 48 dogs and eight cats from a home in the district of Moratalaz. The 56 animals were suffering in unsanitary conditions, with little food or hygiene, according to reports from the police to local outlets.

Madrid police discover dozens of neglected animals in hoarder’s home

The incident took place on the evening of Friday, September 11, at around 10:30pm, after Madrid police received a call alerting them to strange noises coming from the house. The home was located on Calle Arroyo Vellinoso. An officer from the Municipal Police arrived at the location and, upon entering the home, found a large amount of dirt and grime, as well as dozens of animals in conditions of neglect. 

“They were found in unsanitary conditions, practically without food or cleanliness,” the Municipal Police of Madrid stated in a post on X about the incident.

Specifically, the 48 dogs were all Chihuahuas, and the eight cats were of mixed breeds. They were all in poor condition, with the animals lacking hygiene and malnourished.

Watch the video taken inside the home below.

Video: Municipal Police of Madrid

Homeowner hospitalised and animals taken to shelter for care

According to reports about the incident, the home also showed signs of hoarding and was astoundingly dirty. The homeowner was found to be struggling with Diogenes syndrome, a condition marked by extreme self-neglect, domestic squalor, social isolation, and compulsive hoarding of trash or animals. The individual was transferred to a nearby medical centre for treatment, and the animals were rescued from the home and given care and food.

How to adopt the neglected animals

The animals will be held at a shelter and put up for adoption for interested parties. The Municipal Police of Madrid have also released a statement for people interested in adopting the neglected animals.

“You are asking us about the adoption of the rescued animals, @madridsalud has a website where you can find all the information about this: adopcionanimal.es.”

Each animal listed on the site has details about its age, health, medical history, and temperament. Anyone interested in giving the furry friends a new home is encouraged to take a look at the site and, hopefully, welcome a new member to a loving and safe home.