ACT rescues 10 dogs from St. Francois County hoarding property

On Thursday, March 26, the Humane Society of Missouri’s (HSMO) Animal Cruelty Task Force (ACT) assisted the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Department with the removal of 10 adult dogs from a hoarder’s property. HSMO’s ACT had been made aware of the property and the dogs living within the dilapidated home by a delivery person who’d been sent to the house during his route. Human and animal waste was present throughout the home, and there were structural failures of floors and ceilings.

After careful negotiations with the hoarder, ACT was hoping that she would ultimately surrender the animals to our team, she withdrew her consent, and a warrant was served to remove the animals. She was subsequently arrested at the scene by members of the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Office.

The ACT removed 10 dogs, all medium to large sized, ranging from German shepherd mixes to chow-cattle dog mixed breeds. All the dogs are suffering from skin issues, many have swollen joints and paws, and one has exposed and infected bones on his tail. Eight of the 10 have tested positive for heartworms. Two deceased dogs were also discovered at the scene.

A disposition hearing to determine permanent custody of the dogs is set for Monday, April 13.