Humane Society Rescues 36 Animals From Lincoln County Home

ST. LOUIS, MO — The Humane Society of Missouri's Animal Cruelty Task Force rescued 32 dogs, three birds and a rabbit from a home in Lincoln County on Tuesday, according to a new release. Working with the local sheriff's office, the group found the animals, including nine newborn chocolate lab puppies, in a home that smelled of ammonia from animal urine, officials said.

Other dogs rescued included Dachshunds, Pugs, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and others of mixed breed. Some of the dogs had injuries from dog fights and were taken to the Humane Society's headquarters in St. Louis for treatment. None of the animals had clear access to food or water and many were malnourished, according to the news release.

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Animal cruelty investigators say they had worked with law enforcement for several years to "encourage proper care for the animals."

"When no progress was made, the sheriff's office obtained a warrant for the inspection of the property and removal of animals in jeopardy," officials said.

The Humane Society says it is investigating whether the owner of the animals is a dog groomer or has worked as one in the past. Prosecutors say they are still determining whether or not to press charges.

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