Donations and volunteers needed to help care for the animals now housed at Billings fairgrounds.
Last week authorities seized 189 English shepherds, as well as chickens and a cat, from Shady Lane Kennels in Ballantine, Montana. Resident horses and cockatiels were additionally expected to be taken once an appropriate transportation method became available.
Many of the dogs appeared to be malnourished, parasite ridden, and matted with feces and mud, and a few tested positive for parvovirus. Sick and pregnant dogs, as well as puppies, were taken to local veterinarians while the remainder are being housed at MetraPark fairgrounds in Billings.
Sadly, the confiscation came too late for 11 deceased dogs, 10 of whom were found frozen outside and one was discovered beside the bed of Linda Kapsa, the breeder.
A prior warrant was served only a few weeks earlier, when authorities found 13 dead canines and took possession of 10 dogs who were in need of urgent medical care. The photos and videos taken as evidence from the first warrant prompted this second warrant and seizure.
Shady Lane Kennels utilized the internet to sell dogs and authorities are attempting to find 50 pugs, previously seen at the kennel, who were not on site during the raid.
Charges against Kapsa have not yet been filed, but a decision is expected next week.
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
Donations for the care of the dogs can be sent to:
Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office Animal Rescue Fund
219 N. 26th St.
Billings, MT 59101
Food donations are
not needed, as they are feeding a particular brand to avoid digestive issues. However, they need
towels and
blankets and particularly
volunteers to help clean the stalls and socialize the dogs.
If you can help, please contact the temporary shelter manager, Catherine Schaeffer at 406-248-2388.
For more information:
•
Charges weighed against Montana dog breeder•
Seized dogs move into MetraPark•
Officials return to seize dogs from kennels► Join the
The Truth About the Pet Trade community to learn more about how you can help in your community.
► Download the guide,
“Nine Things You Can Do to Help Stop Puppy Mills”Posted by Jennifer Hayes, Best Friends staff
Photo credit: taken by Jennifer Hayes, not one of the affected dogs