Dogs, Goats, Cats Taken From PA Breeder: Pennsylvania SPCA

PHILADELPHIA — The Pennsylvania SPCA’s Animal Law Enforcement team removed more than three dozen animals from a breeder's property in Union County after animals welfare concerns arose.

The PSPCA team responded to a tip from the Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Dog Law. The animals seized from the residence included 16 Great Danes, five French Bulldogs, four English Mastiffs, one Bull Mastiff, 11 cats, and two Nubian goats.

The investigation began when the Bureau of Dog Law inspected a property in Mifflinburg. Inspectors found many animals lacked veterinary care and suffered from untreated medical conditions. Multiple canines were reportedly underweight, with one canine having a neck lesion, another with a large mammary tumor, and several dogs displaying skin conditions.

After the Bureau of Dog Law alerted the PSPCA, the PSPCA secured a search warrant. Officers confirmed the concerns upon arrival, noting several dogs were thin to emaciated, some with open or untreated wounds, and others with skin conditions and ear infections.

All animals subject to a lack of veterinary care and untreated medical conditions were removed from the property. They were signed over to the custody of the Pennsylvania SPCA. After forensic, medical, and behavioral evaluations, they will be made available for adoption or placement with approved rescue organizations.

The search warrant execution took several hours because the property housed nearly 90 dogs. Without a kennel license, individuals are only permitted to house 25 dogs in a given calendar year.

Nicole Wilson, Director of Animal Law Enforcement at the Pennsylvania SPCA, stated that when a severe referral is received, their team acts quickly to ensure animal safety. She added that the sheer number of animals, combined with the lack of proper veterinary care and observed medical issues, made immediate intervention necessary. Wilson expressed gratitude that the animals are now safe and receiving treatment.

The investigation into animal cruelty and neglect is ongoing, with charges pending the conclusion of the full investigation. Anyone with information about this case or other animal cruelty cases can call the Pennsylvania SPCA's Cruelty Hotline at 866-601-SPCA. Tips can be left anonymously.

*This article includes AI-assisted reporting. Editors reviewed all content for accuracy.*