GENESEE COUNTY, MI – Authorities removed 57 dogs from a home in Genesee County on Tuesday after a tip-off about foul odors from the property led to their discovery. Shockingly, 13 of the dogs were found deceased.
The grim discovery followed a report from a public transportation driver and passengers on October 12, who contacted the police due to a pervasive odor emanating from the home. Upon investigation on October 15, officers discovered the dogs confined in kennels, stacked in threes, suggesting conditions indicative of hoarding.
To address the dire situation, the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office partnered with county animal control officers to remove the animals. The process of retrieving all the dogs stretched over five hours, with many of the surviving animals suffering from parvovirus.
Sheriff Chris Swanson revealed that the deceased dogs were discovered in different parts of the residence, including a freezer and on the basement floor. The homeowners were allegedly engaged in breeding activities involving Shih Tzus and Yorkies.
The homeowner, 49-year-old Patricia Ann-Catherine Stone, now faces charges of animal cruelty involving 25 or more animals, allowing animals to suffer unnecessarily, and failing to properly dispose of dead animals.
Sheriff Swanson emphasized the availability of community resources for individuals facing overwhelming situations, whether involving animals or other stresses. The call is a reminder for community members to seek help when needed.
The Genesee County Animal Control has taken in the 44 surviving dogs and is receiving donations to aid in their care and rehabilitation as they recover from the unfortunate conditions.