The New Jersey SPCA, The Humane Society of the United States, Cumberland County SPCA and Gloucester County Animal Control/Animal Shelter joined forces to remove 90 dogs from a puppy mill operation in Upper Pittsgrove Township. The removal of the dogs followed several inspections by local authorities, who had attempted to persuade the commercial breeder to improve the facility's standards of animal care, to no avail.
The dogs included dachshunds, hairless and powder puff Chinese crested, Yorkshire terriers and some mixed breeds. Many of the dogs were suffering from severe skin, eye and dental infections and many were matted with feces. Some dogs who were in need of immediate veterinary attention were transported to an emergency veterinary clinic for care overnight. The operator of the facility surrendered the animals to the N.J. SPCA. The HSUS assisted in caring for the dogs and placing them with several shelter and rescue groups to find new homes.
"Over the last 30 days, officers from the N.J. SPCA have visited this location on several occasions, and have attempted to work with the owner to improve the welfare of the animals on the property," said Col. Frank Rizzo, Superintendent of the N.J.SPCA. "Unfortunately, despite repeated visits, and despite charging the owner with eight counts of animal cruelty, the situation just never improved. The owner's inability to address the deplorability conditions led to today's multi-agency rescue operation. We are very fortunate to be able to call upon a national group like The Humane Society of the United States, and local resources like the Cumberland County SPCA and Gloucester County Animal Control/Shelter to turn around the lives of these animals,"
"Many people don't realize that puppy mills are found in every state, where dozens or even hundreds of dogs can be found living under cruel conditions such as cramped wire cages and inadequate sanitation and veterinary care," said Heather Cammisa, The HSUS' New Jersey state director. "Dogs should be treated like family pets, not like a cash crop."
The dogs are being transferred to local animal shelters throughout the region which are partnering with The HSUS to oversee the recuperation and placement of animals in need. The shelters will evaluate the dogs, address their medical and health needs, and place them for adoption. The animals will all be spayed or neutered in accordance with each individual organization's policies before placement in new homes.
The HSUS' Wilde Puppy Mill Task Force, which participated in this action, investigates and assists law enforcement agencies across the country with case development and rescue of animals from puppy mills. It is named in honor of a couple who left their estate to The HSUS with the goal of helping dogs.
As for the bison and other large animals kept at the property, indications are they will be inspected by investigators with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
