News Release
September 21, 2010
Department of Agriculture Removes Dogs from Deplorable Conditions in Greene County
Today, the Missouri Department of Agriculture's Animal Care Facilities Act (ACFA) program responded to a call from the Greene County Sheriff's Department about an unlicensed kennel near Republic. Animal care inspectors have taken action to protect over 40 dogs living in unsanitary conditions and lacking adequate food and water. The ACFA program worked with the Greene County Sheriff's Department to execute a warrant and is taking possession of the animals.
"The rescue today is yet but another reason why we must remain vigilant in cracking down on unlicensed dog breeders in this state. These dogs have been removed from filthy, unhealthy conditions and now will receive the proper food and medical care they need," said Director of Agriculture Dr. Jon Hagler. "Unlicensed breeders such as this one in Greene County continue to put the health and welfare of animals at risk and our legitimate professional licensed pet breeders at a competitive disadvantage. Missouri has led the nation in licensing professional breeders and now we are leading the nation in cracking down on unlicensed breeders."
Recently, the Department of Agriculture discovered the unlicensed kennel and worked with the Greene County Sheriff's Department to take the necessary steps to remove the dogs from the property. Operating without a license in Missouri is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by a $1000 fine. Since Jan. 2009, ACFA has taken enforcement actions on substandard facilities in Missouri, resulting in over 3,600 dogs rescued.
The Department of Agriculture requires any animal shelter, pound or dog pound, boarding kennel, commercial kennel, contract kennel, pet shop, exhibition facility, dealer or commercial breeder to be licensed and inspected annually. Missouri is one of only a few states in the nation with an animal care program. ACFA Inspectors routinely work with local sheriff's departments and not-for-profit organizations to rescue animals from substandard facilities.
To help Missouri locate and crack down on unlicensed breeders, visit BarkAlert.mo.gov.