Puppy Mill - Lehigh Acres

In November 2009, Animal Control Officers responded to a call reporting breeding dogs kept in unsanitary conditions.  Officers found the owners housing over 20 small dogs in a shed-like structure in their backyard.  The structure was built without a permit and did not conform to code requirements.  The ventilation was inadequate and there was no cooling equipment was installed.  The cages which housed the dogs 24/7 were covered in feces and filth.  The dogs had evidence of skin irritationa caused sitting in their own urine.  These dogs were used as breeding stock and the puppies were being sold on the internet and at various other locations including some out-of-state.  The dogs were surrendered by their owner to avoid criminal charges which Officers determined was in the best interests of the dogs so they could be legal removed immediately.  The dogs were taken to Animal Services shelter for treatment and care and adopted into new homes.  The owners shut down their operation and moved out-of-state.