Hoarding - over 100 dogs seized - Bemidji, MN

Wednesday, Jan 25, 2012

County: Beltrami

Disposition: Alleged

Alleged:
» Carol Schmidt
» Janice Brown

A recovery team from Animal Humane Society lead by Senior Humane Agent Wade Hanson removed 107 dogs and two felines from a property near Bemidji, Minn. yesterday after being called in for assistance by the Beltrami County Sheriff's Office.

Authorities contacted Agent Hanson after the animals were found during a welfare check of the women residing on the property. Carol Schmidt and Janice Brown lived in separate mobile homes on the property with the animals, which have been condemned after yesterday's findings.

On Wednesday, January 25, Schmidt surrendered 48 dogs into the care of Animal Humane Society. Yesterday, Sheriff Phil Hodapp served both women with a warrant to investigate the property and remove the remaining 61 animals that were not surrendered.

All 107 dogs and the two felines arrived at Animal Humane Society throughout late Thursday evening. Each will be provided comfort and care, in addition to being scanned for microchips, provided vaccinations and any other necessary treatments. The dogs are mostly small breeds, including pug, Chihuahua, dachshund and spaniel mixes.

For the 48 dogs surrendered into Animal Humane Society's care, evaluations for placement in Animal Humane Society adoption centers or with its local rescue partners will take place early next week.

The remaining 59 dogs and two felines seized from the property will be held at Animal Humane Society pending development of the case.

In addition to this case, Animal Humane Society is taking an additional 75 dogs this weekend from rescues and shelters that are overwhelmed with the number of animals in their care. For information on animals available for adoption, the public is invited to visit our
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