50 dogs, six cats rescued from suspected puppy mill in Rutherford County

NORTH CAROLINA -- Rescue teams removed at least 50 dogs and six cats from a suspected Rutherford County puppy mill on Friday.

Rescuers found small breed dogs and puppies living in feces and filth and suffering from matted fur and skin, eye and ear infections.

The Humane Society of Charlotte was scheduled to bring back 23 dogs, primarily adults but some puppies, including Shih tzu, yorkies, maltese and dachshunds. The animals will be examined by teams of veterinarians and receive immediate care.

“The dogs and puppies brought to the shelter will be provided with the proper care, love and attention they deserve while they await adoption into loving homes,” said Jorge Ortega of the Humane Society of Charlotte.

Sheriff’s investigators said they found the animals in the home of a woman who was charged with animal cruelty in 2002 and was selling the dogs online through various websites.

For emergency needs, the Humane Society of Charlotte is accepting monetary donations and gently used towels, puppy pads, canned dog food, Esbilac puppy formula for nursing mother dogs, and gallon-sized freezer bags for food storage. These items can be dropped off at the society’s shelter at 2700 Toomey Ave. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

(Charlotte Observer - ‎Oct 4, 2014‎)