On May 6, animal control officers in Indiana were notified of a supposed puppy mill and removed several dogs from the facility. The canines were living in “unsatisfactory conditions,” and a warning was issued to the owner. Authorities will continue monitoring the case, and the pups will be seized if the situation isn’t addressed by May 8.
Dogs removed from suspected puppy mill in Warrick County
The officers received a tip concerning animals at a Warrick County facility. Upon arrival, they discovered several canines living in “unsatisfactory conditions” and needing immediate help. Accordingly, animal control removed the dogs from the alleged puppy mill, and they will be receiving much-needed care. However, several dogs remain in the facility, and the authorities will monitor their care.
Authorities have issued warnings to the facility’s owner, giving them 48 hours to address the situation. Officers will be checking in on them on Wednesday, May 8. If the conditions haven’t been improved, strict action will be taken. Per 14 News, a press release states, “Animal Control employees and deputies will return to the address on Wednesday to monitor compliance and take appropriate action if necessary.”
In December 2023, Warrick County Commissioners noted the animal control department’s oversight. Moreover, in January, the former Warrick County Animal Control supervisor, Danielle Barnes, was involved in a large-scale puppy mill operation. Per 14 News, a witness accused the supervisor of selling purebred dogs under the name of her non-profit. Furthermore, these pups were transferred from animal control.
There were also a lot of prescriptions and documents missing from the department. Along with that, the witness testified about seeing drugs in refrigerators and storage units owned by the supervisor. After further investigation, it was discovered that other employees also engaged in malpractice, fostering and adopting animals only to sell them for a profit later on.
