In the News

Animal Cruelty Task Force rescues nearly 400 animals from
Arkansas puppy mill

PARIS, Ark. (March 23, 2009) — In cooperation with the Logan Co. Sheriff Department and other animal welfare agencies including United Animal Nations, the Humane Society of the U.S. and local humane organizations this week a 10-person team from the Humane Society of Missouri Animal Cruelty Task Force directed field operations to rescue nearly 400 neglected animals from a Logan County, Arkansas substandard puppy mill.

The dogs were found living in horrific conditions in dilapidated structures throughout the 82-acre property. Approximately 350 dogs, 29 miniature horses, eight cats and several exotic birds and turtles were removed from the property. When rescuers arrived, they encountered a disturbing scene. The dogs, ranging from Shih Tzus and Poodles to Akitas and Shelties, were suffering from serious medical ailments and housed in filthy conditions. Many of the dogs were severely matted and suffering from untreated lacerations and serious skin and eye infections. Some of the first to be freed were day-old puppies. It was obvious that many of these animals had never known life outside their wire cages.

“This is the cruel reality behind those cute puppies for sale in pet stores and online,” said Tim Rickey, director of the Animal Cruelty Task Force. “These dogs were kept in tiny cages and forced to breed continuously for the profit of the owners.”

“The Humane Society of Missouri is aggressively pursuing our mission to put an end to substandard puppy mills,” said Kathy Warnick, president of the Humane Society of Missouri. “We are fighting to stop this cruel and inhumane treatment against innocent animals.”

All of the animals were swiftly removed and transported to a nearby emergency shelter set up specifically for this rescue mission. After arriving at the shelter, the dogs were checked by a team of veterinarians and given any necessary immediate medical care.

The Humane Society of Missouri and several other animal welfare agencies have agreed to receive animals from this rescue and place them for adoption. The HSMO brought 30 dogs of varying breeds to our St. Louis City shelter. Following evaluation by veterinary and shelter staff, they will be made available for adoption.