Mississippi rescue saves more than 170 animals from two suspected puppy mills

Via HumaneSociety.org - Approximately 171 dogs, puppies and other animals were rescued from two suspected Mississippi puppy mills. The animals were being sold at a flea market in Tupelo and the Alcorn-Corinth Animal Shelter became concerned about the welfare of the animals after receiving multiple complaints.

Alcorn-Corinth Animal Shelter and the Alcorn County Sheriff’s Department served warrants on the properties and found nearly 123 dogs and puppies. They were living in deplorable conditions in raised wire cages, with no access to clean water or food. Many of the animals were underweight and were suffering from a multitude of untreated medical conditions, including dental, eye, ear and skin problems. Two deceased dogs were found.

Lydia Sattler, Mississippi state director for the Humane Society of the United States, said, “These animals were living unimaginable lives for far too long – no animal should ever have to suffer like they did. We're thankful to Alcorn-Corinth Animal Shelter and the Alcorn County Sheriff’s Department for stepping up to help these animals.”

Rescuers also found cats, horses, ducks, chickens, roosters, bunnies, goats, a donkey and a miniature pig living at one of the properties. The animals did not have access to medical care, adequate shelter, clean water or proper food.

Charlotte Doehner, director and board president of Alcorn-Corinth Animal Shelter, said, “This rescue really exemplifies the need for stronger animal cruelty laws. I’m grateful that we could provide relief for these animals today. And I’m so appreciative of all of the groups that came together to help give them the care they deserve, especially Mayor Tommy Irwin and our Street Commissioner Phillip Verdung who immediately stepped up to offer temporary housing and support for all of the animals.”

The HSUS, Alcorn-Corinth Animal Shelter, All Animal Clinic, Atlanta Humane Society, Heinz Veterinary Services, the Humane Society of South Mississippi, Loving Friends Transport, Mississippi Animal Rescue League, Southern Pines Animal Shelter and local veterinarians assisted law enforcement with the rescue and removal of all the animals. The owners agreed to surrender most of the animals.

Groups are safely transporting the animals to various locations in Mississippi where they will be thoroughly examined by teams of veterinarians and receive any necessary medical treatment. The dogs will be moved to the Humane Society of South Mississippi and the other animals will be moved to the Mississippi Animal Rescue League and other care providers in the state.

This rescue was made possible in part because of the generosity of Louis Dorfman, a dedicated constituent, advocate and supporter of the HSUS. PetSmart Charities is providing the necessary food, supplies and enrichment items for the dogs.

The HSUS has established a reward program to offer up to $5,000 to anyone who provides information leading to the arrest and conviction of a puppy mill operator for animal cruelty. Persons wishing to report a valid tip are encouraged to call 1-877-MILL-TIP and will remain anonymous.

Image: Chuck Cook/Humane Society of the United States