Nez Perce Tribal Police, in coordination with the Idaho Animal Rescue Network (IARN), executed a search warrant at a residence on Grouse Road just outside of Lapwai, Idaho. The warrant followed growing concerns about the welfare of numerous small dogs housed in a mobile home on the property. 22 chihuahuas were rescued.

In a world where heartwarming videos of animal rescues go viral within minutes, it’s easy to believe every nonprofit animal rescue is doing honest, life-saving work. But behind the emotional music and dramatic recoveries, a darker reality is emerging—one where fake animal rescues are exploiting nonprofit status for profit, attention, and even cruelty.