HSMO’s Animal Cruelty Task Force rescues 170 animals from Lawrence County

On September 29, the Humane Society of Missouri’s Animal Cruelty Task Force (ACT), in coordination with the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department and Missouri Department of Agriculture, rescued more than 170 animals from a property in Lawrence County, Missouri. 101 puppies and dogs, five cats, 11 horses, three goats, three ducks and 47 chickens were all suffering from neglect. This is the largest and most heartbreaking rescue our ACT has encountered all year.

We were contacted by a private individual with concerns about the number of animals kept on the property and the condition of the property. Video taken by another individual and subsequently posted on social media appears to show numerous animals being kept in small wire cages. The video has been widely viewed and shared.

The Missouri Department of Agriculture also agreed to investigate the property to determine whether the owner is breeding animals without a license.

Upon arriving at the property on September 29, our Animal Cruelty Task Force observed what our VP of operations described as the worst hoard she’d experienced in her more than 40 years in the animal welfare industry, including 30 with HSMO. The animals were found within mountains of trash and overgrown vegetation. Members of our rescue team encountered multiple dilapidated vehicles, including a school bus. The only water available was from a single well and what appeared to be catch areas for rainwater.

This is the third time we have responded to animal welfare concerns at this property. In 2000, we removed 31 dogs under a warrant. In 2021, following negotiations with the property owner, 27 animals were voluntarily surrendered to us.

“Returning to a property where we have previously removed animals is deeply concerning, particularly when we are once again faced with animals who appeared to be living in dangerous conditions,” said Kathy Warnick, president of the Humane Society of Missouri. “We are grateful to the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department and Missouri Department of Agriculture for their partnership and commitment to protecting animals in need.”

The rescued animals were transported to HSMO facilities, where veterinary teams conducted comprehensive medical examinations and provide treatment, food, clean water, and other necessary care.

A disposition hearing to determine permanent custody of the recovered animals is scheduled for October 26, 2026. Until custody is determined through the legal process, the animals will remain in our care and will not be available for adoption.

Because this is an active case and legal proceedings are pending, additional details may be limited. We will provide updates about the conditions of the animals and their recovery as appropriate.

Members of the public who would like to help us provide medical treatment, food, shelter and ongoing care for rescued animals can donate here:

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Anyone who suspects animal abuse or neglect should contact local law enforcement and the Humane Society of Missouri’s Animal Cruelty Hotline at 314.647.4400.