Investigating Animal Cruelty 59 found in puppy mills, and exhibit horrendous dental decay and infection. These conditions might not be immediately apparent (although some other common violations, like severe matting and skin conditions, are more obvious), which makes it imperative to bring a veterinarian when you inspect these facilities. If a veterinarian is not immediately available but you have been granted permission to inspect the facility, be sure to document the following: • All suspected instances of animal cruelty and neglect • The number of dogs on the property (physical count preferred) • The approximate age of the dogs involved • How many buildings or structures housed the dogs • The names of the responsible parties involved and their contact information • The breeder’s supervising or attending veterinarian Individuals who run puppy mills are often very savvy about the law and very secretive about their operations. They might not allow law enforcement on their property without a warrant, which can be a challenge in investigating these cases. Often the original complaint comes from a citizen who purchased an animal in person (and has first-hand information of the condition of the animals on the property) or received an animal that is sick or appears neglected (but has not seen the condition of the animals on the property). If a person purchased a dog who appears neglected and took that dog to a vet, the veterinary report can often be used towards probable cause to obtain a search warrant if the breeder will not allow law enforcement on the property to inspect. Specialized cases (Clockwise) Example of dogs in unsanitary conditions; a dog with an untreated eye problem; a dog with severe dental disease; and a dog with severe matting
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