Created: 2/24/2008 8:21:58 AM 
NICHOLSON, GA (AP) -- The state has shut down an east Georgia dog-breeding facility after a former employee complained of inhumane conditions.
The state Department of Agriculture seized L&D Farm and Kennel in Nicholson last week. The complaint, filed by 19-year-old Tiffany Butler, details cramped, dirty breeding barns full of more than 300 dogs with open sores and mange.
According to the complaint, the dogs were malnourished and kept in dirty pens full of feces and urine. The animals are still on the farm but the kennel is not allowed to sell any more dogs for now.
Jackson County Manager Darrell Hampton says several have been removed for veterinary care, and at least two had to be euthanized.
Hampton says authorities are exploring what, if any, charges will be filed against Marie Hughes, the farm's owner. She could not be reached for comment.
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