Acting at the request of the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, ASPCA responders are on the ground in Elmwood, Wisconsin, assisting authorities in the removal of nearly 50 yellow Labradors from a substandard, unlicensed breeding facility.

The 35 adults and 13 puppies were discovered living indoors in small, filthy travel crates, with no access to food or water. “What we saw here is no way for a dog to live,” said Kathryn Destreza, Director of Investigations for ASPCA Field Investigations and Response.  Numerous deceased animals were also found on the property.

This investigation began when authorities received complaints of neglect at the facility, and after warrants were served, the facility’s owner was booked into the Pierce County jail for mistreatment of animals, not providing proper food to confined animals and improper animal sheltering.

All 48 dogs have been transported to Animal Humane Society (AHS) in Golden Valley, Minnesota, where ASPCA and AHS veterinarians will provide them with the medical treatment they so desperately need until custody is determined by the court. The ASPCA is collecting forensic evidence and providing legal support to strengthen the case and ensure the best legal outcome for these animals.

We are so relieved that these dogs and puppies are receiving love and care for the first time, but we can’t stop working to rescue the countless others who have not been so lucky. Please consider making a donation to the ASPCA today to help us reach animals in need nationwide.