Pinellas County deputies seize more than 120 dogs

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

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PINELLAS COUNTY (Bay News 9) -- More than 120 small breed dogs have been seized as part of an animal neglect investigation in North Pinellas County.

According to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, the investigation began Monday after members of the Florida Department of Agriculture and the Suncoast Animal League called deputies to a private residence located on Ranch Road in Tarpon Springs.

The dogs were seized by the Suncoast Animal League and will be housed temporarily at three local animal shelters.

Deputies found more than 120 small-breed dogs living in small wire crates inside the home. According to deputies, each of the enclosures contained 2-8 dogs.

Officials said most of the dogs were living in their own feces and urine and some were injured. Suncoast Animal League officials said care for the animals ran up a large medical bill.

As a result, the league is accepting donations to help with care for the animals.

According to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, deputies will do an animal neglect investigation after which the matter will be referred to the state attorney's office to determine if criminal charges will be filed against the home owner and breeder, 69-year-old Teresita Hughes.