Nearly 300 dogs rescued from Arkansas puppy mill

Via HumaneSociety.org - Nearly 300 puppies and dogs were removed from a suspected Madison County, Arkansas, puppy mill after the Humane Society of the United States received a tip via its puppy mill tip line.

The Madison County Sheriff’s Office served a search and seizure warrant on the property and found that the animals were being housed in deplorable living conditions. Many of the animals were living in feces and filth and did not have access to clean water or food.

The dogs’ owner has surrendered the dogs to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and is being charged with two counts of animal cruelty.

Jessica Lauginiger, puppy mills response manager for the HSUS’ Animal Rescue Team, said: “Arkansas’ lack of a laws regulating commercial dog breeding makes the state a hotbed for puppy mill operators, and this case is no exception. No animal should ever be forced to live in conditions like we’ve seen today. We’re thankful to the Madison County Sheriff’s Office for taking action to help these animals.”

When responders arrived on scene, they found 295 puppies and dogs living in unsafe and unsanitary conditions with untreated medical conditions.

“I can’t believe that something like this could happen in Madison County and I am relieved that we were able to come to the aid of these dogs today,” said Clay Rowland, Madison County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant.

The HSUS, Saline County Humane Society, Madison County Pet Shelter, Animal League of Washington, and Jones Mobile Veterinary Service assisted authorities with the rescue and removal of the animals.

The HSUS’ Animal Rescue Team safely transported the animals to a temporary emergency animal shelter. Once at the shelter, the dogs were thoroughly examined by a team of veterinarians and received any necessary immediate medical treatment.

Responders from RedRover are assisting with the temporary caretaking of the animals. Greater Good and Rescue Bank are providing food and medical supplies for the animals at the temporary shelter.

The HSUS has established a reward program to offer up to $5,000 to anyone who provides any 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 credit: Brian Wade/AP images for the HSUS