Michigan Humane Society Helps Rescue More Than 150 Dogs from Missaukee County Puppy MillApproximately 20 dogs will come to MHS for medical care and rehabilitation

LAKE CITY, Mich. – The Michigan Humane Society provided expert assistance in the removal of more than 150 dogs from two locations owned by a large, unlicensed breeding facility called JRT John’s Jack Russell and Shiba Inu Kennel in Lake City, Michigan on May 23, 2013.

The removal of the animals is a result of a civil action, prompted by violations of Michigan’s Dog Law, led by the Missaukee County Sheriff’s Office and the Roscommon County Animal Shelter, and assisted by the Michigan Humane Society, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®, and other agencies.

Photo credit: ASPCA®

MHS had been in touch with the authorities on the case for more than a year and was at-the-ready to assist in removing the dogs from the kennels’ deplorable conditions.

Many of the dogs – primarily Jack Russell terriers and Shiba Inus – were discovered living in outdoor enclosures with little protection from the elements.

In addition, many dogs had no access to clean drinking water. Such conditions are common at puppy mills – large-scale breeding operations where profit is given priority over the well-being of the animals.

Photo credit: ASPCA®

Dogs requiring medical examinations were transported to a nearby temporary shelter, where they are receiving veterinary care.

On Friday, May 24, MHS will transport approximately 20 of the dogs to its Rochester Hills Center for Animal Care for further evaluation, veterinary treatment and potentially long-term care.