GASCONADE COUNTY, Mo. — The Humane Society of Missouri's (HSMO) Animal Cruelty Task Force announced it had rescued 22 dogs, including several newborn puppies, from an unlicensed breeder in Gasconade County on Thursday.
The rescue came after an emergency warrant was obtained in cooperation with the Gasconade County Sheriff's Office during a "lengthy investigation" against Coonies Coonhounds, a reportedly unlicensed breeder in the county, the sheriff's office said in a statement to 5 On Your Side.
County Sheriff Scott Eiler reportedly witnessed a dead puppy on the property prior to executing the warrant, but the puppy's remains had been removed prior to Thursday's rescue, the Humane Society said in an emailed statement.
“These dogs lived in horrific conditions, and had we not intervened, many more may not have survived,” said HSMO President Kathy Warnick. “We are grateful for the alert actions of the Gasconade County Sheriff and their assistance in helping us rescue these animals from such a dangerous and heart-breaking situation."
The dogs were transported to HSMO's Macklind headquarters in St. Louis for health evaluations and emergency veterinary treatment, HSMO said. All of the rescued dogs were malnourished and were experiencing a range of conditions from wounds to respiratory issues.
A disposition hearing with the owner of Coonies Coonhounds is scheduled for June 10, according to HSMO. There, it may be determined that the society assumes legal custody of the dogs.
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