Dozens of small dogs rescued from puppy mill arrive in Colorado

DENVER - Second chances don't happen very often when you're a small dog.

Yet, for 55 Pomeranian and Terrier mixes, a second chance means a shot at adoption and a new home.

The puppies were rescued from a puppy mill in Nebraska, where they endured horrible living conditions.

"They were living on chicken wire-floored crates, and little socialization and human contact," said Lisa Pedersen, CEO of the Humane Society of Boulder Valley, where the dogs were transported.

The dogs have several medical needs, including orthoscopic care and dental work.

"We're taking care of these animals and getting them the medical rehabilitation that they need," said Pedersen.

They will receive medical treatment and social rehabilitation while in Boulder.

Elaine Wood, with the American Humane Association, says it's not uncommon for other shelters across the country to send dogs to Colorado.

"Many of the shelters in the Denver-metro area have extensive behavior programs to help these dogs recover from the trauma they've suffered in these puppy mills," said Wood.

"Denver-area shelters have a tremendous amount of community support," said Wood.

Colorado has an 80 percent adoption rate, compared to the national average of 40 percent to 60 percent.

"Their futures are very bright once they come to shelters in Colorado," said Wood.

Half of the 55 dogs are at the Humane Society of Boulder Valley, while the other half is at the Dumb Friends League.

To find out how they're doing and when they can be adopted, log onto www.ddfl.org.