Dogs from kennel clearly in poor condition

I am caring for two of the Harold Buzz Powell (Thunder Ridge Kennel) dogs. The damaged eye had to be removed. I know many people, in and out of rescue, who love their dogs, but I don't know one who would allow a dog with an eye in this condition to go untreated.

The other dog in my care came in with a fever and severe staph infection of the skin caused by sitting on a wet, contaminated surface. She is terrified of people and trembles with fear when touched.

The veterinarian who examined these two dogs and four others wrote in a statement that all six of the dogs had visible signs of living in a wet, contaminated environment and malnutrition.

The two dogs noted above were fortunate that someone cared enough to purchase them and save them. Sadly, four of the dogs were ordered by the court to be returned to the kennel.

I invite members of the Iowa Pet Breeders Association to work collaboratively with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and rescue groups to help ensure that all breeders are complying with the Animal Welfare Act and taking care of the health and basic life needs of breeding dogs in the more than 400 USDA-licensed facilities throughout Iowa.

Lynn E. Snyder

MidAmerica Boston Terrier Rescue

West Branch