Shelter takes in 16 dogs seized from western Iowa

CEDAR RAPIDS -Volunteers, groomers and an Anamosa veterinarian teamed up Wednesday night to work with 16 dogs that authorities said were rescued from “deplorable conditions” in western Iowa.

Bob Citrullo, executive director of the Cedar Valley Humane Society, said the Sac County Sheriff's Office, along with the Des-Moines based Animal Rescue League of Iowa, had removed a total of 88 dogs Wednesday from an unidentified commercial breeding facility in western Iowa.

The rescue league collaborated with four Iowa animal shelters, including the non-profit Cedar Valley Humae Society at 7411 Mount Vernon Rd. SE, to examine, vaccinate and clean the dogs. Mackenzie Paulson of the Anamosa Veterinary Clinic said the dogs were living in a contained environment, and had ear and eye infections, lesions and sores, fleas, and severe dental disease.

“These animals are in bad shape,” said Citrullo, who said it was a “substantial situation” of animal neglect. Charges are forthcoming, Citrullo said, but little information on the investigation was available.

In additon to Cedar Rapids, the adult dogs, mostly cocker spaniels, were transported to shelters in Boone, Carroll and Sioux City. About 18 remained at the ARL in Des Moines for veterinary care, according to a news release.

The fur of the 16 cocker spaniels in Cedar Rapidswas matted and covered in feces. Paulson said some of the dogs appeared to be pregnant.

Fortunately, Citrullo said none of the dogs were aggressive with the rescuers.

“This is great step in the direction of getting them adopted,” he said.

The Cedar Valley Humane Society will shelter the dogs during the ongoing investigation, but Citrullo said medical expenses will be taxing - possibly $500 per dog. So the shelters are dividing their efforts to mitigate costs, Citrullo said.

“We had a really great response from our volunteers,” said Cedar Valley Humane Society Communications Director Jan Clark. Pawsitive Paws Academy and Gwen's Pet Grooming were pitching in help as well.

Information on how to donate to the Cedar Valley Humane Society can be found at its website.

The Animal Rescue League of Iowa also is seeking donations, and dry dog and puppy food.