Saturday, July 12, 2008

More than 120 dogs seized from alleged puppy mill

More than 120 dogs were removed from a Tampa Bay home after authorities found them living in what they called deplorable conditions.

Pinellas County Sheriff's deputies say they found the dogs at a home in East Lake, packed two to seven to a cage. Some had broken legs, while others were undernourished and had sores from living in wire cages.
Deputies say most of the animals were living in their own feces and urine.
The injured dogs were taken to emergency animal clinics. The others will be given to shelters.
Authorities are conducting an animal neglect investigation and the matter will be referred to the State Attorney's Office to determine if criminal charges will be filed against 69-year-old Teresita Hughes, the dog breeder who owns the home.