Berkeley County, S.C. – More than 40 dogs and puppies have been rescued from an alleged cruelty situation involving conditions commonly seen in dogfighting operations.

The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office served a search and seizure warrant at a rural property around 7:30 a.m. on August 11. Responders found numerous dogs on heavy chains, with some standing in inches of stagnant water after recent rainfall.

Several other dogs and 15 puppies were kept in hutches.

Veterinarians found that many dogs had painful, inflamed paws, apparently caused by standing in waste-contaminated water for several weeks. Some also had scars on their faces and legs that veterinarians said appeared consistent with organized dogfighting.

The rescue involved Humane World for Animals, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office and Charleston Animal Society. The dogs were transported to a safe, confidential location where responders and volunteers are providing care and treatment.

The sheriff said the investigation demonstrates what can be achieved when law enforcement and animal welfare organizations work together, adding that animal cruelty allegations will continue to be thoroughly investigated.

Since June 2025, Humane World for Animals has helped law enforcement rescue more than 250 dogs from conditions consistent with dogfighting across 15 properties in South Carolina, Indiana and Florida.

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