16 Animals Rescued from Mississippi Dogfighting Ring

One phone call changed the lives of 16 animals suffering in silence on a rural Mississippi property.

Animal Rescue Corps removed 15 dogs and one rabbit from a Natchez property in July 2026 after authorities discovered severe neglect and evidence of possible dogfighting. The Adams County Sheriff's Office secured a warrant and called the national nonprofit for help with an operation they named "Underdog."

What responders found was heartbreaking. Dogs were restrained by heavy chains, with only makeshift doghouses or plastic barrels for shelter. The chains had worn away all grass and soft earth, leaving the animals confined to hard dirt circles. Many dogs were severely emaciated, and older ones carried scars from untreated injuries.

The rescue began when someone cared enough to dial 911. Adams County lacks animal control services or shelter resources, so Sheriff Travis Patten reached out to Animal Rescue Corps for their expertise in animal handling, evidence collection, and emergency care.

"The neglect these dogs have endured is truly heartbreaking," said Tim Woodward, executive director of Animal Rescue Corps. "Many are severely emaciated, and we can only guess the last time they were given food or water before deputies arrived on scene."

The Ripple Effect

This rescue saved taxpayers thousands of dollars while giving animals a second chance. Sheriff Patten praised Animal Rescue Corps for absorbing every cost associated with the operation, from initial response to ongoing medical care.

The organization transported all 16 animals to their facility outside Nashville, where they're receiving treatment, proper nutrition, and socialization. The dogs are learning to trust humans again and rebuilding their confidence before being placed with adoption partners.

Because the animals were seized under court order, they'll remain in Animal Rescue Corps' care until the legal case concludes. Meanwhile, they're experiencing comfort and care for possibly the first time in their lives.

Woodward's dedication to animal welfare earned him recognition as a CNN Hero in 2025. His organization has been rescuing animals from crisis situations since 2010, focusing on communities that lack resources to address abuse.

One call, 16 lives saved, and countless more protected by holding abusers accountable.