October 14, 2011

Department of Agriculture Removes Dogs from Property in Christian County

Animal care inspectors from the Missouri Department of Agriculture worked in conjunction with the Humane Society of Missouri to remove small dogs from an Ozark, Mo. facility. Dogs removed include primarily Yorkies and Maltese.

Following a request from local law enforcement, animal care officers from the Missouri Department of Agriculture visited the home and identified numerous animal welfare issues, including unsanitary conditions, dogs without drinking water and dogs in need of veterinary care. In addition to the animal welfare issues identified, the operation was not licensed through the Department's Animal Care Program and had been doing business without a license for at least four years.

Rescued animals will be placed with licensed shelters and rescues in Missouri, including the Humane Society of Missouri.

ACFA inspectors routinely work with local organizations to rescue animals. Since January 2009, actions taken by the Department of Agriculture have resulted in over 5,300 dogs being rescued.

For more information regarding the Department of Agriculture's animal programs, visit mda.mo.gov.