Raid At Warren Pet Shop Uncovers Animals Living In Filth
WARREN (WWJ) - Dozens of animals have been rescued from "deplorable, filthy conditions" at a Warren pet store that had no running water or electricity.
Police and animal control officers raided Greenwood Pets and Plants on 9 Mile Road near Schoenherr after Mayor Jim Fouts raised concerns about the business.
Fouts said the business owes the city more than $9,000 in past due water bills and therefore doesn't have running water. He said electricity to the building had also been turned off.
"Conditions have not been good, and they have not been following a lot of good laws in animal care," he told the Detroit Free Press. "I could not sit idly by and allow these animals to die."
Authorities stormed the store and removed dozens of dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, small farm animals and even a python from what were described as "deplorable, filthy conditions." The animals were taken to the Macomb County Animal Shelter.
Police found the business owner hiding in the basement. He was taken to the hospital after complaining of back pain, and placed under arrest.
Fouts said the shop owner could face charges of negligence or animal cruelty.