In Ferndale, Michigan, Bark Nation, a nonprofit dedicated to saving dogs from abuse and neglect, rescued 20 dogs that had been languishing in crates and behind bars for an extended amount of time.
We had known about these dogs and their situation and all the animals, but didn’t know when exactly we’d be able to step in…
After multiple complaints about animal neglect, The Devoted Barn, that had been keeping different animals in its care, had been served with a search warrant in January 2024. At the time, 64 animals had been seized including goats, pigs, donkeys, sheep, an alpaca and a llama. Subsequent complaints followed where more animals were seized while other animals were relocated.
The Devoted Barn’s owner, Melissa Borden, 52, is currently serving six months in jail for animal cruelty and abandonment in a case involving other animals. She was found guilty of abandoning/cruelty to 25 or more animals. Her trial lasted for six days and jurors deliberated for less than an hour in October 2025 before finding her guilty. She was sentenced to prison in December 2025.
Fast forward to just two weeks ago, when Bark Nation rescued the 20 dogs; some of the senior dogs had been originally rescued overseas dog slaughter meat trade, and according to social media posts from Borden, the dogs were unadoptable.
Concerns have been raised regarding the fate of the 20 dogs. Fortunately, when Bark Nation reached out to the staff and volunteers from the Devoted Barn and asked if they could help with the care and relocation of the dogs, volunteers were relieved to turn the dogs over.
It was now time to welcome the Triumphant 20!
Earlier this month, we reached out to The Devoted Barn with an offer: to transfer all of their remaining dogs into the care of Bark Nation.
And yesterday, that happened for 19/20 dogs. And tomorrow, we welcome the final dog!
All 19 dogs packed their goodie bags with their favorite toys, treats and blankies, put on VERY brave faces, and made the trek to our shelter!
And here they are: Duffy, Gypsy, Ryker, Will, Pumpkin, Sara, Kit Kat, Elliott, Zara, Rose, Charity, Blondie, Caroline, Presley, Elvis, Blitzen, Joseph, Scarlett and Roxy. Honey was expected to arrive the next day.
Each member of The Triumpant 20 will have a built-in support system. They will go home with all needed supplies and the backing of an exceptional behavior team already committed to their success
The seniors have all been provided with medical and behavioral treatment. The organization has joined local training centers in the area in order to prepare the dogs with socialization and training skills.
How can YOU help provide the best care for the new 20 besties?
Donate via Venmo! @BarkNation (exact spelling, business account)
Donate via PayPal! @bknation
Purchase supplies via our Amazon Wishlist! https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1FVLC1ZTZLU3…
Many thanks to all of the heroes. Angels don’t always have wings.
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