More than 100 dogs & cats rescued from unlicensed breeder in Washtenaw County
SALEM TOWNSHIP, Mich. - An animal welfare group says it's rescued more than 100 dogs, cats and other animals from a home in Michigan where an unlicensed animal breeding operation was housed.
Humane Society of Huron Valley says it found 39 cats, 20 kittens, 18 dogs, 16 puppies, 14 chickens and a parrot Wednesday in conditions described as "deplorable" at the home in Washtenaw County's Salem Township, about 30 miles west of Detroit.
The HSHV says the owner is a self-described 'hobby breeder' and did not have a breeder or kennel license and selling puppies and kittens for almost $2,000.
“When it’s all about money, unfortunately, animals often pay the price, living in unsanitary conditions without adequate medical care, nutritious food or anything that might decrease profit,” says Michele Baxter, HSHV’s Cruelty & Rescue Manager. “This individual was selling puppies and kittens from $1100 to $1800, so there was no excuse for their poor care.”
The Humane Society says many of the animals were found matted, underweight, and suffering from a variety of health and behavioral issues. They were also living among piles of feces with dirty water. It says some were confined to a basement. Michele Baxter, the humane society's Cruelty & Rescue Manager, says some puppies and kittens were being sold for $1,100 to $1,800.
The case is expected to be investigated to determine whether criminal charges will be sought.
This is the second large-scale rescue of animals for the Humane Society of Huron Valley in less than four weeks. On May 25th, 71 animals were rescued from a home in Augusta Township, including 7 cats, nine dogs, 13 chickens and 10 exotic birds.
Under Michigan law, failing to provide care involving 10 or more animals is a felony punishable by up to 4 years and a $5,000 fine plus possible restitution.
Due to these two rescues, the HSHV is offering special adoption rates: adult cats are free, kittens are adopt-one-get-one-free, and adult dogs adoption fees are 50% off. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION.
Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.