Summerdale pets almost ready for homes

BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. (WALA) - Pet lovers packed into PetSmart in Baldwin County for an animal adoption event, but there was one thing on everyone’s mind.

“The first question they ask is, ‘Are these Summerdale dogs?’ said Deneen Balistere, Adoption Coordinator for Baldwin County Humane Society.

The images from the Purple Hearted Puppies Animal Shelter have left a mark on many in Baldwin County, including Deneen Balistere, who helped the night they were found.

"That night was probably the most horrific thing I’ve ever had to deal with in my life. The images still haunt me at night,” said Balistere.

The Baldwin County Humane Society has plans for the rescued dogs. It is adopting out pets already in its system to make room for the Summerdale pets that will need long term care. Some of those Summerdale pets already have homes waiting on them.

"We’ve already put in a foster application with BARC, we are hoping to hear back,” said Jen Dimitrelos.

Rescue officials have seen some of the Summerdale pets go from horrific to happy.

"They are gaining weight, they are getting healthy. It makes what we all do, all of us rescuers, it makes what we do rewarding,” said Balistere.

Baldwin County Humane Society officials say they are planning two major adoption events for the Summerdale animals. FOX10 will let you know when the information is released.