Monett, MO (KSDK) - Seventy-three dogs and puppies rescued from a breeding facility in Lawrence County, Missouri are in St. Louis.
The dogs were rescued from a facility in Monett after it lost its state license. The breeder was cited for a number of violations, including: standing water and mud in kennels, standing water in dog houses, inadequate veterinary care, damaged fencing, trash accumulation and weed growth, failure to provide clean drinking water for animals and the presence of rat droppings.
Pics: Dogs rescued in Lawrence County
The facility was also cited for using guns as a means of euthanizing animals, a method that is not approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association or Missouri regulations.
This is the first legal action and rescue under the state's new Canine Cruelty Prevention Act, which was signed into law on April 27.
The breeds rescued include Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers, American Eskimos, Poodles, Beagles, Papillons and Brussels Griffons.
The Humane Society of Missouri's Animal Cruelty Task Force was instrumental in rescuing the animals.
"I'm committed to Missouri gaining a reputation as a state with the best, most humane breeders in the country," Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster said. "We want Missouri breeders to be proud of the dogs they offer across the nation, and to let people know these dogs have been raised in quality, calm environment."
The animals will all receive check-ups and could soon be up for adoption.