More Than 90 Dogs Removed From Possible Puppy Mill

HOWELL (WWJ/AP) - Officials say more than 90 dogs and puppies have been removed from the site of a suspected puppy mill in Livingston County.

Armed with a search warrant, sheriff's deputies, along with the Humane Society and county animal control officers, responded to the home Wednesday after receiving multiple reports about potential animal neglect at the Howell-area property, about 45 miles northwest of Detroit.

Once they were inside the home, investigators found large-breed dogs and puppies, mainly poodle mixes, living in what were described as disgusting conditions.

Jill Fritz, Michigan senior state director for the Humane Society, said the stench at this mill was overwhelming.

The animals, she said, had severely matted fur and untreated medical conditions — including dental and eye problems.

"There were a lot of puppies in filthy conditions, on filthy floors with a lot of newspaper, urine and feces covered newspaper," Fritz told WWJ's Marie Osborne. "There were animals in kennels and in wire crates and then even in horse stalls in the barn."

Officials say the dogs were being sold online. Rescuers also found multiple cats and at least two litters of kittens.

All of the animals were taken to a temporary shelter for care.

Animal cruelty charges are expected to be brought against the homeowners.

Meantime, Fritz said the animals were being treated by veterinarians and won't be available until the legal case is settled.

Fritz urges anyone looking for a pet not to buy one online.

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