Case Snapshot

Case ID: 14992

Classification: Neglect / Abandonment

Animal: dog (non pit-bull)

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Puppy mill - 80 animals seized, four dogs dead
Lithia, FL (US)

Incident Date: Wednesday, Dec 10, 2008
County: Hillsborough

Disposition: Not Charged
Case Images: 1 files available

Abuser names unreleased

Four dead dogs were found by Hillsborough County Animal Services when authorities went to remove more than 80 animals from a Lithia property today after an anonymous tipster said the creatures were living in deplorable conditions.

More than 80 dogs, cats and exotic birds were found in what authorities described as a "dungeon" at 1306 Pelote Cemetery Road in Lithia, said animal services spokeswoman Marti Ryan. One of the four dead dogs discovered was possibly pregnant, Ryan said.

The animal breeders lived in the main house while most of the animals were left in another house, Ryan said. Authorities found many of them had feces hanging from their matted-fur faces.

"Our concern right now is to get the animals," Ryan said. "Some of theses animals haven't seen light in a very long time."

Ryan said her office got an anonymous tip about the site, which she says houses an animal breeding business.

Neighbor Tamara Dunn was shocked when animal services arrived to take the animals.

"We thought he was reputable breeder and he was breeding for shows," Dunn said.

The creatures have been taken to animal services, where veterinarians will do preliminary animal exams, Ryan said. Some of the dogs had tumors, dehydration, dental disease and other infections.

Authorities are still investigating the scene and no charges have been filed at this time.

References

• « FL State Animal Cruelty Map

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