UNION COUNTY, Fla. — The Union County Sheriff’s Office and American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals removed 120 mistreated dogs that were seen "living in extremely unsanitary conditions," the sheriff's office said.
The dogs are primarily Great Danes, but also included Chinese Crested dogs, and French and English bulldogs. Many of the dogs appeared to be underweight and have untreated medical conditions, the sheriff's office said. Animal cruelty charges are pending, according to the agency.
In addition to assisting on scene, ASPCA relocated the dogs to an emergency shelter where they will receive forensic exams to support the investigation, and administer medical care and behavioral treatment.
The ASPCA deploys nationally to assist local authorities in animal cruelty cases including animal fighting, hoarding, and puppy mills. It also provides local communities with resources including subject matter expertise to effectively assist animals during cruelty and disaster situations. The ASPCA providing support for the best legal outcome for the dogs.
“All dogs deserve proper care and a good quality of life, including those who are bred for sale, which unfortunately was not the case in this situation,” ASPCA President and CEO Matt Bershadker said in a press release. “Upon our arrival, we discovered some animals who appeared underweight with untreated medical conditions and living in extremely unsanitary conditions.”
“... We have a proven track record of always taking animal cruelty seriously and it will not be tolerated in our county,” Union County Sheriff Brad Whitehead said. “We continue to work closely with the ASPCA and thank them for their expertise and support so we can proceed with criminal charges and prosecution, and to ensure the wellbeing of these animals. We would also like to thank the Union County Animal Control for all their assistance and involvement in this case."
Last week, 56 dogs in deplorable conditions were rescued from a Westside home. On Wednesday, more than 120 dogs were recovered and available for adoption in Putnam County.
First Coast News has reached out to the sheriff's office. ASPCA provided the following tips:
- If you’re considering adding a new pet to your family, the ASPCA encourages dog lovers to adopt from a local shelter or rescue or learn how to identify a responsible breeder to ensure you’re not supporting cruel breeding practices.
- If you’ve got your heart set on a particular breed of dog and haven’t been able to find one for adoption at a local animal shelters or rescue group, contact a breed-specific rescue. These volunteer-run networks are easy to find online and often have regional chapters.
- If you do decide to work with a breeder, it’s important to take your time and find a responsible breeder who gave your future pet the best start possible.
- Responsible breeders do not sell to pet stores. They reject the practices of commercial breeders, brokers, pet stores, auctions and others who profit from cruelty, and instead plan breeding carefully, place dogs thoughtfully, and take a lifetime responsibility for the animals they have bred and for all their offspring.
- No matter where you begin your search for a good breeder – either through a personal referral or a web search – it is critical that you physically visit the breeder’s home. You should expect to meet at least the mother dog and ideally other littermates and see where they were raised.