108 Animals Rescued From Michigan ‘Hobby Breeder’

ANN ARBOR, MI — The Humane Society of Huron Valley rescued 108 animals living in reportedly deplorable conditions in a Salem Township residence Wednesday morning, leaving them at capacity with animals who need homes. Animal cruelty investigators found 39 exotic cats with 20 kittens, 18 purebred dogs and 16 puppies, 14 chickens and an African Grey parrot forced to live among piles of feces, slimy water bowls and maggots, according to HSHV. Some of the animals were confined to a basement with no ventilation.

The owner of the animals was a self-described “hobby breeder,” according to a HSHV officials, and the owner did not have a breeder or kennel license, nor were any of the animals licensed.

“When it’s all about money, unfortunately, animals often pay the price, living in unsanitary conditions without adequate medical care, nutritious food or anything that might decrease profit,” said Michele Baxter, HSHV’s cruelty & rescue manager. “This individual was selling puppies and kittens from $1100 to $1800, so there was no excuse for their poor care.”

Many of the animals were found matted, underweight and suffering from a variety of health and behavioral issues, HSHV officials said. All of the animals are currently being treated and cared for by veterinary and other HSHV staff and volunteers.

“We are deeply grateful to the staff and volunteers who are showing these poor animals what real love is,” said Tanya Hilgendorf, HSHV’s CEO. “And to the Good Samaritan who tipped us off about this situation. Like many breeders and sellers who advertise online, this one had the appearance of being a fine place to buy a puppy or kitten. The reality was far different. When folks don’t insist on seeing how all the animals, including the parents, are cared for, they don’t realize they may be contributing to animal cruelty.”

HSHV officials say they are “bursting at the seams” with this rescue and another recent rescue of 71 animals. For a limited time, they are discounting adoption fees, offering adult cats for free and half off adult dog adoptions.

See photos and descriptions of available animals at www.hshv.org/adopt.

Images courtesy Humane Society of Huron Valley