Dozens Of Animals Rescued From Famed PA Dog Breeder's Home

Dozens of animals have been rescued from horrific conditions on the property of a famous and award-winning dog breeder in Pennsylvania, authorities said.

The animals were discovered after a tip through the Bureau of Dog Law on Dec. 18. They were on the property of Bella Vita Show Dog Kennel, located in Mifflinburg in Union County.

On site, officers found a total of 39 animals, including 16 Great Danes, five French bulldogs, five mastiffs, 11 cats, and two goats. The animals were suffering from "neglect on a massive scale," authorities said.

Bella Vita, owned by Giuseppe Mazzamuto and his partner Jennifer Zerbe, has had numerous animals win coveted awards at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show over the years.

Mazzamuto is also the owner of a popular Mifflingburg restaurant, Original Italian Pizza.

The Pennsylvania SPCA described the discovery as "staggering."

"Many were severely underweight, suffering from untreated wounds, painful skin conditions, and chronic ear infections," the Pennsylvania SPCA shared in a statement. "These animals weren’t forgotten. They were being bred and sold while living in suffering."

The animals were immediately taken to the Philadelphia SPCA headquarters and the Main Line Animal Rescue for critical medical care.

"Our veterinary teams are treating wounds, addressing infections, and beginning their road to healing," the SPCA said. "We are giving them the care they once lacked and we promise to bring them justice."

As their road to recovery begins, officials are asking for donations to help with their care, as well as individuals interested in adoption. All donations made before the end of the year will be matched up to $135,000, the SPCA said.

To learn more and donate, see the SPCA and the Main Line Animal Rescue.