In the News

Humane Society of Missouri Rescues More Than 50 Dogs from Bollinger County Breeder

August 1, 2007

The more than 50 dogs and puppies that were rescued from a substandard puppy mill on July 23, 2007 are now being treated at the Humane Society of Missouri.  Those that were suffering from severe matting have been shaved to allow for more freedom of movement.  While shaving these dogs, we discovered many skin problems as well as medical conditions resulting from massive flea infestations.

Many of the dogs and puppies seem to have good personalities, but are not used to being handled. For many, this is the first time they have been out of their cages. 

A disposition hearing is scheduled for August 15, 2007 when we hope to gain custody of the dogs. We will then make plans for their continuing rehabilitation and adoption.

Many people have expressed interest in adopting these dogs and puppies.  Please sign up to receive email communications from the Humane Society of Missouri to get the latest information. Click here.

July 26, 2007

The recovery time is unknown for the rescued dogs of Bollinger County because of the conditions in which they had to live. The staff has been monitoring them closely, especially two smaller dogs that are in critical condition due to anemic conditions caused by an infestation of fleas. The Shih Tzus and Poodles with severely matted hair have been carefully shaven to allow them to move more comfortably as well as see without hair obstructing their face.

One day after the rescue, a pregnant Chihuahua gave birth to a litter of six puppies. We are concerned about the health of the puppies and mother and will be watching closely for medical problems that may arise due to the lack of proper medical care.

July 24, 2007

Three Chihuahua puppies found in unsanitary conditions inside the home. See more photos. Many of the dogs had such badly matted hair, it inhibited them to see and walk properly. See more photos.

Working in cooperation with the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Department, the Humane Society of Missouri rescued more than 50 dogs believed to be endangered on a property near Gipsy, Missouri. Acting on an anonymous tip, the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Department issued a warrant that was served to remove the animals from the unlicensed breeding facility. The rescue team consisted of 19 experienced animal rescue professionals and animal handlers along with an independent veterinarian.

More than 50 small to medium size dogs were found on the property. The breeds of dogs include Pomeranians, French Bulldogs, Maltese, long-haired Dachshunds, long and short-haired Chihuahuas, one Yorkie Maltese mix puppy, a litter of six-week-old short-haired Chihuahua puppies and a Scottish Terrier.

According to Dr. Melinda Fleming, a veterinarian for the Humane Society of Missouri, "The majority of the dogs suffered from long-term medical conditions.  All the dogs had some degree of flea infestation, with two of them being severely anemic and in critical condition due to blood loss from a massive amount of fleas.  Many of the dogs had extremely matted hair coats.  Due to these mats in their hair, some of the dogs could not fully bend their legs and had limited ability to stand and walk normally.  A few had such badly matted hair on their faces that it covered their eyes and obstructed their vision making it difficult for them to see." Other medical conditions included severe dental disease including tooth loss, eye conditions including corneal ulcers and old injuries, ear infections, and skin infections.  The dogs also suffered from long, overgrown toe nails making it difficult for them to stand and walk comfortably. The majority of the dogs and puppies were housed in elevated pens with wire bottoms that forced the animals to balance on thin wire in order to stand.

The dogs were taken to the Humane Society’s Headquarters in St. Louis City where they are receiving expert veterinary medical care and attention from Humane Society staff. The dogs will remain in the custody of the Humane Society of Missouri until a disposition hearing is scheduled in Bollinger County.

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For last year's news stories, click here. For information on previous rescues,
read our Rescue Diaries.