A puppy mill investigation has led to the recovery of more than two dozen dogs found living in “deplorable” conditions.
The Tazewell County Sheriff’s Office says 32 dogs were recovered Friday at a home on Stinson Ridge Road.
According to the sheriff’s office, the dogs were discovered in various states of duress. They were found malnourished, infested with fleas and worms, and standing fecal matter and urine-soaked cages scattered throughout the house.
Three dogs were transported for emergency medical treatment. The remaining dogs were taken to the county animal shelter for the time being.
“The conditions these animals were placed in was disgusting and beyond imagine, we will work with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to bring a myriad of charges against the owners,” Sheriff Brian Hieatt said in a new release.
The sheriff’s office says charges will be brought against the owners for abuse and neglect, failure to vaccinate, failure to license, and failure to provide adequate medical treatment.
Fecal matter, urine, dog food, and dirt were found throughout the house, according to investigators. They also say the roof was collapsing in certain areas of the house.
The sheriff’s office has not released the names of the owners, but did reveal that a female owner was charged in 2008 and 2015 with animal-related crimes.
