Nearly 50 Belgian Malinois dogs were discovered crammed into a Queens apartment in horrific conditions, with many having never been outside or felt grass beneath their paws.
At a Glance
- 48 Belgian Malinois dogs were found in squalid conditions in a Queens apartment, with some hidden in closets and cupboards
- The dogs had reportedly lived in total confinement their entire lives, never experiencing the outdoors
- Three dogs had to be euthanized due to their poor condition; the remaining are undergoing evaluation
- The owner, who reportedly worked in airport security, is under criminal investigation by the NYPD Animal Cruelty Squad
- Animal Care Centers of NYC is now at triple capacity and desperately seeking foster homes and adopters
Horrific Discovery in Queens Apartment
Animal welfare officials made a shocking discovery in Queens, New York, when they found 48 Belgian Malinois dogs crammed into a filthy, overcrowded apartment. The dogs were discovered after their owner was evicted, leading to intervention by Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) and the ASPCA. According to reports, these intelligent, high-energy dogs had been living in appalling conditions, with many confined to small closets and cupboards without access to daylight or outdoor activity. The situation was so dire that three of the dogs had to be euthanized due to their deteriorated condition.
“These dogs have reportedly lived in total confinement for their entire lives,” said Tara Mercado, an official involved in the rescue effort.
Neighbors reported that the stench from the apartment was overwhelming, with the owner frequently disposing of feces by throwing it off the balcony. The owner, who has not been publicly identified, reportedly worked in airport security and didn’t actually live in the apartment but in an RV nearby, using the residence solely to house the dogs.
Criminal Investigation Underway
The NYPD Animal Cruelty Squad has launched a criminal investigation into the case, which animal welfare advocates say represents one of the most severe instances of animal neglect in recent New York City history. The sheer number of dogs confined to a single apartment, combined with the conditions in which they were kept, has raised serious questions about how such a situation could have persisted without intervention from authorities or neighbors. The dogs’ owner now faces potential animal cruelty charges as investigators work to document the full extent of the neglect.
“They’ve likely never touched grass, walked on a leash, or met a stranger,” explained Biana Tamimi, one of the rescuers working with the traumatized animals.
What makes this case particularly disturbing is the breed involved. Belgian Malinois are known for their intelligence, high energy levels, and need for constant stimulation and exercise. These dogs are frequently used in law enforcement, military operations, and security work precisely because of their drive and capacity for activity. Keeping such animals confined in small spaces without proper exercise constitutes a particularly cruel form of neglect given their natural needs.
Rehabilitation Efforts and Shelter Crisis
The discovery has created a crisis for the Queens ACC facility, which is now operating at nearly triple its intended capacity. More than 30 of the rescued dogs are being kept at this facility, with staff and volunteers working around the clock to provide care and begin the process of rehabilitation. The ASPCA has stepped in to provide medical and behavioral treatment for the dogs, but officials caution that these animals face a long road to recovery before they can be considered for adoption.
“Every new sound, every human interaction is overwhelming. But we’re already seeing glimmers of curiosity — and that gives us hope,” said Tamimi.
The ACC is now in urgent need of help from the public. The organization is waiving adoption fees for dogs over 40 pounds due to overcrowding and is seeking foster homes for medium-to-large dogs for at least two weeks. Manhattan and Staten Island ACC shelters are also operating at capacity, with significant numbers of dogs awaiting homes. Officials plan to coordinate with breed-specific rescues for the Belgian Malinois once the dogs are ready for placement, recognizing that these intelligent, working-breed dogs will need owners experienced with their specific needs.
How is this even possible. 40 MALINOIS found in an apt here in NYC! pic.twitter.com/VYEhRkg6GU
— Pound Hounds ResQ (@PoundHoundsResQ) May 9, 2025
Call for Community Action
The rescue of these Belgian Malinois has highlighted not only a case of extreme animal neglect but also the ongoing challenges faced by animal shelters across New York City. With facilities stretched beyond capacity, animal welfare organizations are calling on community members who can provide homes—whether temporary or permanent—to step forward. Those interested in fostering or adopting can find information on the ACC website, with officials emphasizing that even helping with one animal makes a significant difference in their ability to care for the recently rescued dogs.
As the criminal investigation proceeds and the dogs continue their journey toward recovery, this case serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance in reporting suspected animal cruelty and the importance of responsible pet ownership—particularly when dealing with high-maintenance, specialized breeds that require significant training, stimulation, and care to thrive.
