Daily Dunklin Democrat: Local News: 51animals seized by Humane Society (06/09/09)

One of a number of dogs, included in the total 51 animals, seized by local officials and the Humane Society of Missouri following an investigation that took place for more than a year.

Photo provided

An investigation that has been taking place for more than a year came to an end on Monday, as the Humane Society's of Missouri and the City of Caruthersville, in a joint effort, conducted a search warrant at a Pemiscot County residence, resulting in the removal of 51 animals.

According to local officials, Humane Society investigators from Caruthersville and the Humane Society of Missouri, Pemiscot County Sheriff's Deputies, area animal control officers and assisting departments were on hand as a search warrant was executed on County Road 437, just North of Steele, Mo., where animals were believed to be in danger.

Once the warrant was served, officials located several animal remains in various stages of decomposition, as well as other animals that had been suffering neglect and abuse.

The total number of animals removed from the home included 23 dogs, six kittens, 16 goats and sheep, and six horses, which were taken by the Humane Society of Missouri to their home-location in St. Louis, Mo., for immediate medical care.

Investigators indicated that some of the animals that were found alive suffered from debilitating sores, fly bites, and broken horns and hooves. Officials added that, unfortunately, their arrival was too late for one small puppy, which actually died on the scene during the seizing of the animals.

The case is still under investigation, and the owner of the property, which has not been named, did sign a voluntary transfer regarding the animals, following the execution of the search warrant.

A disposition hearing has been tentatively scheduled for June 29, before Judge Byron Luber of the Pemiscot County Circuit Court. However, the prosecuting attorney has yet to file formal charges in the case.