Woman reunited with dog rescued from Bledsoe County hoarding case
BLEDSOE COUNTY, Tenn. (WDEF) – As more details emerge from the animal hoarding investigation in Bledsoe County, one woman says she has been reunited with her dog after learning the animal was among those rescued from the property.
Kam Warren is Scout’s original owner.
She said she made the difficult decision to rehome her dog, believing Scout would be going to a loving family that could provide the attention she deserved.
“So I felt it would be better to find her a home that would give her good attention. I vetted her the best I could, and she picked Scout up and went home. We talked for a while, and I believed things were going really well. Then I found out she had lied,” Warren said.
Warren said the experience has changed the way she views rehoming animals.
“People’s words aren’t good enough. It used to be your word was gold and a handshake.”
She said deputies with the Rhea County Sheriff’s Office, who were assisting with the rescue operation, contacted her after identifying Scout through the dog’s microchip.
“My heart sank. It dropped. I went into panic mode. I thought, ‘Oh my God, is she okay? Where can I come get her? What do I need to do?”
Since returning home, Scout has begun receiving treatment for several medical issues.
Warren said the dog has bilateral eye infections, bilateral ear infections, and is also being evaluated for a possible flea allergy.
Jennifer Snyder, owner of the animal clinic overseeing Scout’s recovery, said the dog’s condition showed clear signs of prolonged neglect.
“Yes, basic care was not done for this dog. She was also absolutely loaded with hookworms,” Snyder stated.
Snyder said situations like this can be difficult for pet owners who are simply trying to find a safe home for their animals.
“I think it makes it really difficult for someone who is rehoming a dog to get the right information because the second you say, ‘Hey, has anybody heard of this woman?’ people ask, ‘Why are you rehoming your dog? Why would you do such a thing?’ It’s really a catch 22 with animals.”
As Scout continues her recovery, Warren hopes sharing her story will encourage others to thoroughly research anyone they plan to entrust with a pet.
A GoFundMe and an online wish list have been created to help cover Scout’s medical expenses and support her recovery.
