RAW VIDEO: Approximately 1,000 Dogs Rescued from W.Va. Kennel
RAW VIDEO: Approximately 1,000 Dogs Rescued from W.Va. Kennel Save Email Print
Posted: 8:20 PM Aug 24, 2008
 Last Updated: 1:19 AM Aug 26, 2008
 Reporter: Associated Press
Email Address: news@wsaz.com
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UPDATE: Monday
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (AP) - It's a rescue operation that could cost as much as $200,000 -- nearly half the annual budget of the Humane Society of Parkersburg.

But Executive Director Maryann Hollis says it's worth it to see the grateful look in the eyes of any one of the nearly 1,000 dogs taken from a Parkersburg-area kennel over the weekend.

Wood County deputies discovered the dogs Saturday while executing a warrant at Whispering Oaks Kennels in their investigation of possible dog-related pollution.

Kennel owner Sharon Roberts said the dogs were well cared for by her and her six employees. But Hollis says it would be impossible for so few people to properly handle that many dogs.

While most of the animals are in relatively good health, Hollis says a few appear to be suffering from mange, hypoglycemia and heat exhaustion. One's hind legs are paralyzed, but Hollis says an animal rights group is buying a cart that will allow it to move around. The rest will eventually be put up for adoption.

Animal rescue groups from across the country are helping with the effort.


ORIGINAL STORY: Sunday
PARKERSBURG, W.Va. (AP) - A Parkersburg-area breeder has surrendered approximately 1,000 dogs to humane society officials.

While there were no signs that the purebred dachshunds had been abused, officials say it would be impossible for any human being to properly care for that many animals.

Carrie Roe, the board president for the Human Society of Parkersburg, says many of the dogs had never been touched by a human.

Sheriff's deputies investigating possible dog-related pollution found the dogs Saturday while executing a search warrant on the property.

Wood County Prosecutor Ginny Conley says the owner hasn't been cited for animal neglect but has agreed to never operate a dog-breeding business again.

The pollution investigation is ongoing.

Meanwhile, the humane society says the rescue operation could cost up to $100,000.

For information about adopting the dogs, click here to visit the Humane Society of Parkersburg's website.
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Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 3, 2008 at 07:02 PM
The good people of Parkersburg should adopt a dog that was already at the shelter before this happened then. If those people that are upset that only 60 purebreds were left there, there are plenty of other animals needing good homes at that shelter. All dogs have an adoption fee regardless of breed by the way.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 2, 2008 at 05:37 PM
Everyone that got a sick dog from Sharon Roberts needs to get in contact with each other so they can file a class action lawsuit against her. Many had genetic problems that she guaranteed against. Now that she's out of business, how is she going to make good on the sick dogs she sold? She sold those animals with a health contract. I know many many many breeders are thrilled that the puppy mill is CLOSED. You go ahead and throw your money away on the puppy mill lady and let her try to fight this.
Posted by: Tami on Sep 1, 2008 at 09:37 PM
I for one will never help or donate to the humane society again. This was nothing more than a power trip and legalized theft. The people of Parkersburg needs to wake up. Any fool can tell from the pictures that these dogs were cared for. From what I understand, breeders across the states are outraged over this, as well they should be! I would love to see a legal fund started for the owner of this kennel to fight this. I for one would donate. Wouldn't that just fire the humane society up as they are begging people to send money to help these "poor" animals. That I might add were taken and placed in much worse conditions than they were "rescued" from. And the people of Parkersburg are so upset that the humane society is offering their city only 60 of the dogs (at a fee of 100.00 I might add.) They act like they actually thought this was on the up and up. PLEASE
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 29, 2008 at 09:42 AM
It solved one problem, Kivy. This old lady most likely won't get back in the business of puppy milling again. They didn't get her for abuse because she surrendered the dogs. If she didn't do that, they had enough to charge her with abuse. They were kind enough to give her a choice. But you do raise a good point that I really agree with. We do need to work on changing the laws in regard to puppy mills. This case proves that. This old lady won't be living in poverty for sure so don't worry about her. She made enough profit off those animals to live well enough. She's at the age where I'm sure her and her husband can collect social security and most likely already do. They are being charged with pollution. If you go to www.newsandsentinel.com you will see plenty of updates on this story. That site keeps this story updated each time something new comes up. That site has MUCH more information on this that WSAZ has brought to us. Check it out.
Posted by: Kivy on Aug 28, 2008 at 07:36 PM
It seems to me that this has solved nothing. If people want this sort of thing to stop, they need to pass legislation. As it is, if they can not prove neglect I honestly believe the owners rights were SEVERELY impinged on. If you don't like this sort of thing happening, work in your community to change the laws. Instead what you have is some woman threatened and told you can risk going to jail or you can give up your livelihood and probably plunge yourself into poverty. Charge people with crimes or leave them alone.
Posted by: Luther on Aug 28, 2008 at 01:02 PM
Stacy T: In the interest of solving these problems, I posted an effective solution. You have repeatedly missed the point. In the business of handling problems, you would be bankrupt. You would rather argue about people involved in the problem, rather than focus on a solution. Can we keep the remaining comments constructive?
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 28, 2008 at 11:45 AM
I have a dog from this woman. It was malnoursished, dehydrated, had coccidia, seizures, and skin problems. Don't be fooled into thinking she sold healthy dogs. Her so called health guarantee was crap too. When you called her to inform her that she sold you a very sick dog, she would blame the person who bought the dog and refuse to do anything. We spent over $500 bringing this dog back from the brink of death. It's one year later and she's a wonderful pet. Sure took a lot of money and patience to nurse her back to health though. My vet documented everything. I filed complaints against this lady. My dog was one of the most expensive rescue dogs I've ever had. I have had stray dogs that I rescued that were in much better health than the one I bought! Had we realized she was a puppy mill, we NEVER would have dealt with her. It wasn't until my dog arrived and we did more research on this woman that we realized what she was. She has been in trouble before with AKC and fined in the past.
Posted by: Stacy on Aug 28, 2008 at 09:44 AM
WSAZ, I think someone should check into this Luther character, and do some investigating there. He claims to have shot and done away with animals before as he states himself "which has worked fine in the past". Maybe some charges should be brought upon him for animal cruelty. And if he has any animals, he should be stripped of his priveledge of owning any animals. Take away whatever pets he has and give them to someone who'll want and take good care of them. He sure doesn't deserve any loyal companionship.
Posted by: Stacy on Aug 28, 2008 at 09:39 AM
Why was it exactly that they were taken away from their original owner anyway? Because they were kept in cages? At least they seem to have been taken care of. Food, water, shelter. At least they aren't just being put to sleep, which is probably what's going to happen now. WSAZ, you should explain more as to why the animals were taken. You even reported that most seemed to be in good health. So why take the dogs away, just to have them put to sleep.
Posted by: Rick on Aug 28, 2008 at 06:26 AM
Please oh Please DONT SEND ANY TO OHIO.The Amish already have thousands and i do mean thousands of dogs at their puppie mills. But the law will do nothing about it. I commend Wood County keep up the great Work
Posted by: barb on Aug 28, 2008 at 05:34 AM
THERE ARE MUCH WORSE PUPPY MILLS THAN THIS, THIS IS MILD COMPRED TO THE TRUE HORROR I HAVE SEEN. AND NOW THIS GROUP HAS SPENT ALL THIS MONEY ON THIS RAID, LEAVING THE REALLY BAD ONES UNTOUCHED. I AM A BREEDER, AND I AM STUNNED THAT THE AUTHORITIES DONT GO AFTER THE REALLY BAD ONES FIRST. THESE DOGS LOOK GREAT COMPARED TO SOME OF THE NIGHTMARISH CONDITIONS I PERSONALLY HAVE SEEN.
Posted by: TrynFoolMe on Aug 27, 2008 at 11:13 PM
Luther and here we go again are one and the same feeble mind. FYI - I do have a day job. I probably earn more money each year than you could count to. Animal rights is a very admirable cause as well as women's and children's rights (I guess you do have the sense of a gnat in one way, huh?). Anyone who condones caging animals for profit disses the rest of us ol' boy.
Posted by: Kay on Aug 27, 2008 at 09:34 PM
I agree with C Tim. These animals appear to be clean and in good health. They are not issuing the owner with any citations. It is just as possible to have a filthy backyard breeder as it is to have a filthy puppy mill but all large breeders are not puppy mills and all backyard breeders are not filthy. It sounds like this police force pulled a Janet Reno/Waco type enforcement on this man's business and shut him down before investigation was camplete because it is the what the vocal majority may want even if it may not be the right thing to do. We have a beautiful and healthy dog from just such a puppy farm in Wisconsin and she has been a wonderful addition to our family. Many of our friends have a puppy from this same farm and are just as happy. You only have to see the negative if that is what you are looking for and those few are very vocal.
Posted by: Brad on Aug 27, 2008 at 09:09 PM
Attention: The HSUS puts to sleep over 90% of the animals they so call rescue! This is a fact.
Posted by: here we go again on Aug 27, 2008 at 08:54 PM
Luther, you are actually one of the smartest people to post so far. You have hit the nail on the head as to handle this. Unfortunately, these people are so blind to the fact that these are just useless animals, that they are not willing to accept your insight. I am right there with you though. Only suggestion is to possibly use kroger bags, why waste the money on the trashbags when the kroger bags work just as well.
Posted by: Luther on Aug 27, 2008 at 07:54 PM
I will add this comment as well...please folks, refrain from commenting unless it's a solution to the problem. My second solution is to omit the box of shells from my first solution...instead, just use the bags. If it helps, use the Ohio River. The River serves so many purposes to the tristate, here's another. Sadly, as Bob Barker even knows, there is a HUGE problem with dog and cat numbers getting higher and higher, sometimes you just have to take care of the problem. Just trying to help.
Posted by: Luther on Aug 27, 2008 at 07:49 PM
I can see from reading the comments here that rather than talk about a solution to the problem at hand, you'd rather insult and threaten me. Hey, if you want to look the other way when there is a problem, that's your choice. Rather than attack and threaten, I simply take care of the problem. I guess it shows what types of people you are, vs what type of person I am. I am just a natural problem solver. I don't intend to change any of your minds, I don't need to. I simply posted my solution (which has worked fine in the past) for this problem. Go ahead, spend all your money (possibly figure out a way to bring tax money into this), cause a big uproar, and then save some of these dogs. Next month, there will be another problem just like this and we can all do it again. I have a simple, effective solution.
Posted by: Joanie on Aug 27, 2008 at 06:51 PM
I just heard the update on these dogs and I'm STUNNED!! Why in God's name send any of them to Missouri??? That is one of the largest states for Puppy Mills! I should know since I have done Mill Dog Rescue and had dogs out of MO Mills. There are thousands of Mills in MO and they regularly surrender dogs to rescues or sell them cheaply to rescues. WHY SEND MORE DOGS TO MO?? I thought the entire raid was a scam and now I am convinced of it. From what I saw in WSAZ News, the dogs were healthy, clean and well-fed. Of course I don't know about the smell but those dogs were not in danger of starving. It looks to me like this was just a scam by the local Humane Agency to take the dogs and make money on them. The Roberts' should sue. No, I am not a breeder and don't condone abuse but this looks bad when the dogs end up in MO at a 'shelter'. AREN'T THERE ENOUGH DOGS IN THE MILLS OF MO NEEDING RESCUED?? What a bunch of idiots!!
Posted by: here we go again on Aug 27, 2008 at 04:53 PM
With all of you animals rights fanatics. People get off your butts, get a job, and get away from this computer. Take your money and opinions and put it to good use, like saving the lives of children or abused women. You idiots make the state of West Virginia look even worse than normal.
Posted by: Marie on Aug 27, 2008 at 03:28 PM
On their Humane Society website they are sending the majority of the animals out of our state. Why can people here at home not have a chance first to adopt? They recommend adopting from these other organizations that the animals are going to, which are states away, knowing that the animals will not be transported back to West Virginia. It makes one think that there is money being made for the Humane Society to give these purebred dogs to other groups. Read their news releases on their website and you will see what I mean www.hsop.org and click on the puppy mill update.
Posted by: cee on Aug 27, 2008 at 01:22 PM
GRAPOST::::: how much have you donated to a child this week!!!!
Posted by: john on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:22 PM
luther i got a box of shells and a box of bags come on over and i'll fix your math for you
Posted by: Andy on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:18 PM
I dogs came with instruction manuals! Fortunatly there is a lot of good information out there for the people who are willing to put the time into it. My favorite is www.leerburg.com Most people don't know what they are getting into, and they are the last people I would want to see with a rescue or shelter dog.
Posted by: Teen-aged Breeder on Aug 27, 2008 at 09:37 AM
To Anonymous on Aug 27, 2008 I haven't sold any dogs yet, but yes, I do plan on screening owners. While the animals are in my care, I am responsible before God and man to what happens. Directly or indirectly I want to ask: Why do you want a dog right NOW? Are you buying for someone else? I need to talk to the caregiver, not the buyer. Where will the dog spend most of its time, and will it be with other animals or humans? Do you have or are you planning on having kids? You can't housebrake a dog and potty train a baby at the same time. Are you aware of this breed's character? A poodle has different needs and personality than a peke. What's your long term goal for this dog? Think about where you see yourself with it in five years. What will you do if you can't keep your dog? Don't tell me that will never happen, it does. While it's impossible to find forever homes with a few questions, buyers who don't pass my tests will have to go get pups somewhere else.
Posted by: JG on Aug 27, 2008 at 09:31 AM
You people who have posted that you see nothing wrong with this story should be ashamed. Backyard breeding should be illegal.
Posted by: Stacy on Aug 27, 2008 at 09:27 AM
To Luther, AGAIN. You are still a moron. Have you never been exposed to dogs? They do have feelings. If people would take the time to notice, animals do have feelings. Dogs like interaction with humans, as were chickens and most cattle do not. Either way, you're out numbered on this one man, you lose.
Posted by: C Tim on Aug 27, 2008 at 09:23 AM
They took this lady's dogs. She was not cited or charged. Most of the dogs were in good health. One was lame. Out of a thousand dogs, that sounds like a good average. You folks need to see this for what it is. Anyone who would support this type of police activity towards someone who has not broken any laws nor abused any animals has no idea of the principles this county was founded upon.
Posted by: Matt on Aug 27, 2008 at 08:45 AM
Out of 1000 dogs, a few are bound to be sick. Should the sick ones have been put down by the breeder? What do you expect? The bigger news here is the theft on the part of the "Human" Society.
Posted by: marilyn on Aug 27, 2008 at 02:31 AM
From the video, those dogs looked well cared for.None of them showed fear in behing handled by a strange.Which shows me that kennle had hands on contact with their dogs.Also those dogs were not yapping and yipping like those i have seen seeking attetion.Their hair is not matted nor did the dogs seem to have dirty coats.Which shows their housing was kept very clean. I mean look at the dogs that are white..Their fur is not stained or yellow which proves those dogs were groomed.I doubt very highly if they were all given baths before the video.Also the coats looked healthy..which mean fleas and worms were under control.Also none of the puppies or dogs showed signs of discharge.Which again proves with that many dogs..They were still well cared for.Also i noticed no overly long toe nails on any dogs I showed dogs and horses for 30 years plus and did some judging.So those pics are worth a 1,000 words to me, and in my humbel opinion they were in a well manged kennle ment to make money
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:56 AM
I have a question for Teen-aged Breeder. When customers come to by the puppies what are some the qualities that you look for in the potential owner? What kind of probing questions would you ask the customer? I mean we couldn't let somebody like Jerome get his hands on a pitbull to perform in a ring for the rest of its life. What happens when a dog loses Jerome?
Posted by: Ruthie on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:54 AM
Looks to me like they were running a valid, clean, organization. Those dogs accommodations were nothing like true puppy mills where the animals are not cared for. The dogs & pups were clean and healthy. Once again, big brother ruins another life and livelihood. It sucks.
Posted by: tom on Aug 27, 2008 at 12:50 AM
This is a sad and horrible story but the scariest part of it is the comments of the creeps who don't seem to have a problem with the kennel keeper. Fortunately, West Virginia is easy to drive around.
Posted by: 3DOGMAN=TUCKERS OWNER on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:43 PM
ANYONE WHO DISAGREES WITH THE JUDGES SEARCH WARRANT(NOT THE HUMANE SOCIETIES)SHOULD HAVE TO SPEND THEIR LIVES PREGNANT IN A CAGE JUST LIKE THESE DOGS.I HAVE BEEN TO SEE THE WAREHOUSE THEY ARE IN NOW,WHILE ITS NOT THE BEST,AT LEAST THEY ARE BEING SEEN BY A VET,CAGES CLEANED,BATHED,FEED PROPERLY,FRESH WATER,AND MOST OF ALL PICKED UP AND HELD BY SOMEONE(1ON1 CARE,NOT 100TO1 LIKE HER EMPLOYEES) MRS.ROBERTS JUST WANTS TO PUT THE BLAME ON SOMEONE ELSE. SHE CARED ABOUT NOTHING BUT HER BOTTOM LINE AND OR THIS WOULD NOT HAVE HAPPEN.WHEN YOU HAVE THE EPA AT YOUR HOUSE HOW CAN YOU SAY YOU HAVE DONE NOTHING WRONG.WHAT ABOUT THE STREAMS THAT WATER RUNS OFF INTO,DO YOU WANT TO GO FISH,SWIM OR WATERSKI IN THAT BACTERIA LADEN H20 DOWNSTREAM.I DONT LIKE TO DRINK WATER WITH FECAL MATTER IN IT,IF YOU DO PLEASE GO AND GET YOU SOME!!WHEN YOU ADOPT A DOG FROM AN SHELTER YOU ARE PART OF THE SOLUTION,NOT PART OF THE PROBLEM. IF PUPPY MILLS WERE ILLEGAL THE $$$ DONATED WOULD SPENT ELSEWHERE IN BETTER WAYS!!!!
Posted by: Steven on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:42 PM
found this on Drudge...lol
Posted by: Dave on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:08 PM
Are you kidding me 200K?! Aren't there better ways to spend public funds? IE catching murderers, providing shelters for kids, or porn stars from shooting in kids parks (drudgereport 8/26/08) lol. I mean let's get a grip here dogs as they exist now are the product of hundred of years of breeding to create animals that serve people thus shouldnt we make sure that the people that can enjoy them are ok before spending lugubrious amounts of money on "rescuing" them?
Posted by: Kela on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:05 PM
Dear Harlee, we've seen what, 20 seconds of video and 2 or 3 stills of these animals? I certainly for one haven't seen all 1000 of them. Thankfully, most apparently were in relatively good health so I guess in twisted minds such as your own, that makes this all OK - stick 'em in cages and leave them there until, assuming ever, they are sold like hamburgers and fries at Wendy's. Want to supersize that Russell puppy, sir? Hey Luther, I hear the snakes of hell hissing for you......
Posted by: Marilyn on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:54 PM
WV is my home state but right now I'm ashamed of the whole state for their antiquated approach to everything, EXCEPT SPORTS!! Medical care is horrific, jobs, housing and opportunities to prosper are nil but idiots like this woman can breed and torture animals and WV will probably sluff it off and do nothing !!!
Posted by: Charles on Aug 26, 2008 at 09:40 PM
Were the owners of the animals where the raid was conducted old or ill?
Posted by: Harlee on Aug 26, 2008 at 09:16 PM
People look at the videos! are the dogs unhealthy? what is the difference between where they were and where they are? At least when they were at Whispering Oaks they had an option of being inside or outside. The paper keeps spouting about 3X3 kennels All the kennels in the video have doors that lead to an inside kennel also. the humane society caused the dehydration in these dogs when they loaded them into enclosed kennel cabs and put them in the back of pick up trucks in 80-90 degree sun with no water. Whispering Oaks had 6 full time employees to help care for these animals. 1 out of 1,000 had a serious health issue? or is it 1 out of 900. maybe by tomorrow there will only be 500. how much money does the humane society stand to make on this deal? they have apparently been planning it for weeks they bragged that most of the dogs would be shipped out of parkersburg by wednesday. wasn't that fast? what are they going to do with the pregnant dogs c-section them and let the puppies die?
Posted by: mike on Aug 26, 2008 at 09:12 PM
Luther, Dogs have feelings too. Remeber that when someone hurts you. Dogs are many things to people. If you shoot a K9 you just shot a Police officer. I know dogs mean nothing to you, but to some people they are like people.
Posted by: RedRyderz on Aug 26, 2008 at 06:13 PM
Get PETA involved. They'll take care of those 1,000 dogs in no time at all. Of course, they'll also need a boatload of garbage bins to throw the puppy corpses in once they kill the animals.
Posted by: Dave on Aug 26, 2008 at 06:12 PM
"A society is judged by the way they treat their animals." I always heard it was their young. When did that change?
Posted by: Jana on Aug 26, 2008 at 05:40 PM
A society is judged by the way they treat their animals. A good way to stop this animal hoarding in the guise of breeding would be to tax breeders of all domestic animals $100 on every animal sold and put that money into a fund to rescue all abandoned or abused animals.
Posted by: ProtestPuppyMills.org on Aug 26, 2008 at 05:26 PM
Puppy Mills exist due to greed and if you don't understand why they are wrong watch the videos at http://www.youtube.com/ProtestPuppyMills
Posted by: MR BEAGLE on Aug 26, 2008 at 05:07 PM
I Guess they just had to try out that new "ANIMAL DISASTER" pick-up truck shown in the video. Look this is a complete violation of these peoples rights. I did not see 1000 dogs and I don't even believe it. These nosy cops just can't help themselves. This could have been delt with properly instead of a couple of know-it-all cops shootin from the hip.
Posted by: Jerome on Aug 26, 2008 at 05:01 PM
Dave you got it right. You sound like the first person on this thread to have your priorities right. Are any of these dogs American Pit Bull Terriers? I always need an extra dog for replacement.
Posted by: kathy on Aug 26, 2008 at 04:58 PM
why breed dogs when there are so many being killed in shelters every day. every breeder should pay a tax for homeless animals.
Posted by: MaryB on Aug 26, 2008 at 04:45 PM
Here is a not-so-original idea for those considering the purchase of an animal from a breeder (AKA puppy mill - no matter how you phrase it)..DON'T SHOP - ADOPT! Shelters, rescue groups, and county facilities have millions of animals that are waiting for and deserve loving homes. If this were the practice of most rather than shopping with breeders, the need for such puppy mills would diminish!
Posted by: Virginia on Aug 26, 2008 at 04:14 PM
Are there limits on the max number of dogs kennels may have? Do they not have to be checked or inspected at least annually? Is this a "puppy mill"?
Posted by: yuck on Aug 26, 2008 at 04:13 PM
luther you are one sorry excuse for a human being.
Posted by: Luther on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:46 PM
I am not a moron. I came up with a simple solution but you guys didn't like it. Don't take it out on me. In Korea those animals are a delicacy. They are not like humans where they have feelings they are DOGs for God's sake.
Posted by: Edward on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:42 PM
The people who ran this puppy-mill masquarading as a 'shelter' need to be put in jail and the filthy property where these dogs lived needs to be turned over to the sheriff and condemmed as unfit for human habitation.
Posted by: Dave on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:40 PM
Dog related pollution? Since when do they seize livestock over pollution? It's usually dealt with as a land use or zoning issue. The People's Republic of Parkersburg needs to apologize, return the dogs and deal with any pollution issues in a law-abiding fashion through the appropriate agency. Private property is private property. If a few out of 1000 were sick. Here's a newsflash: Not all dogs are born healthy or stay that way. Where does a breeder go for a refund when a dog has a birth defect or gets sick with an illness that doesn't respond to veterinary care? Spoiled rotten public needs a reality check and they'll get it when the price of puppies goes through the roof or some species will not be at any available at any price, period.
Posted by: JIM on Aug 26, 2008 at 03:29 PM
another business shut down because the animal rights idiots dont approve. a kennel is a business that raises and sells dogs. its legal. the dogs were well cared for. in any population of 1000 dogs a small number will have problems. these owners appear to have a marketing problem is all, too much stock. where do you idiots think puppies come from? we have 300,000,000 people, half of them want a dog or two (the good people),they have to be raised somewhere. its time to load these animal rights and invironmental idiots into interment camps until the can be reeducated or liquidated which ever is easier
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 26, 2008 at 02:55 PM
I think that it's absolutely crazy that nonone knew about this puppy mill until now..
Posted by: Colonel Incredulous on Aug 26, 2008 at 02:16 PM
Parkersburg Resident stated: "I can clearly see we have some people with math degrees on here. 100,00 divided by 1,000 is 100. $100 per dog...that isn't gonna touch the cost of rescuing these puppies. By the time you add up the cost to transport, feed, bath, have a vet check EACH dog, and the cost while the dog is waiting to be adopted, $100,00 isn't near enough". Apparently Mr. or Mrs. math wiz...you neglected to take into consideration economies of scale, donated goods and services, etc.
Posted by: To Solomon on Aug 26, 2008 at 02:10 PM
are you in a white padded room right now? If not please report to one!
Posted by: bill on Aug 26, 2008 at 02:00 PM
it seems a lot of people in wv have a problem with animal rights, but its prob because they dont even understand human rights. and you can forget about civil rights. that would require way to much education for some of these people. believe it or not, there are thousands of scientific studies on animals and they all have proved that animals feel pain and suffer psychological problems just the same as humans. most people buy a dog so they can leave it on a 6ft chain for the majority of their lives. what a great life.
Posted by: Twinkie on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:52 PM
Dear Mistoianoff: Unfortunately this story probably won't show up on Animal Planet - WV doesn't have an SPCA. It's too bad, I would have liked to have seen the "mill" she was running, and just what the animals' environment was really like. I doubt it would have made West Virginias or any other dog lovers proud. As far as you're opinion as to no abuse or illegal activities, why would a "breeder" let a dog suffer with mange without treatment? Or a paralyzed dog that now will be ambulatory thanks to this seizure. Common sense must be hard to find in some parts of the world.
Posted by: Twila on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:42 PM
Yo Tucker, you ARE my hero of the day. You're spot on 101%. If this woman was truly legit, or even had a good reputation as a breeder, she wouldn't need or have 1000 dogs at once, they would have been sold long before it got to this point. Breeders needs to be licensed with certified employees to care for animals, the tax man ought to get his share of their proceeds and not one little female dog should ever be repeatedly impregnated for profit.
Posted by: Mary on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:38 PM
Yo Lorie, uhhhhh, huh? STS, honey (stick to the subject).
Posted by: Eve on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:36 PM
Yo Solomon, uhhhhh, huh?????
Posted by: Teen-aged Breeder on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:25 PM
While this bust was needed, I do not appreciate all the blanket comments that some of the readers have made. Not all of us backyard breeders are puppy mills. Yes, it is a business, but that doesn't mean we aren't attached to our dogs. Mrs. Roberts is not acting like a breeder. Aside her suspected pollution (which any breeder tries to avoid for the sake of the neighbors), the fact that her dogs were so poorly socialized displays a lack of the most rudimentary rule of breeding. Well behaved, friendly dogs are the most important thing in any kennel. A breeder should be able to proudly display both the parent dogs as examples of adult temperament, and allow the kennels, runs, or other habitats to be viewed. Most customers want to see these things. It makes me wonder how she was selling her pups. Before anyone asks, I have only one dog in my kennel. She lives inside with me and my family inside, and steals butter out of the dish.
Posted by: mlstoianoff on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:22 PM
There does not appear to be any real animal abuse or ilegal activies such as dog fighting or starvation, just too much work for too small a staff. This shoulkd not show up on an animal police show on Animal Planet
Posted by: Chris on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:17 PM
What is it with people always bringing up the Bible and God when were talking about dogs! Solomon thats good you know the Bible but were talking about dogs. lol
Posted by: John on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:16 PM
Check out drudgereport.com...it is linking to this story.
Posted by: To Solomon on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:13 PM
You worry me!! Were not at Church! were talking about dogs. Ok?
Posted by: MIA on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:07 PM
I have a solution too. Box of 50 .22 shells, line up idiots like Luther aim/fire and you're rid of Parkersburg idiots. They are also the ones that don't believe animals have feelings or should be cared for, so you get the idiots and irresponsible pet owners two for one.
Posted by: TUCKER THE BIG DOG on Aug 26, 2008 at 12:28 PM
IF THE PEOPLE WHO READ THIS REALLY WANT TO DO SOMETHING BESIDES EXPRESS AN OPINION, THEN CALL THE GOVERNOR AT 304-558-2000 AND ASK FOR LEGISLATION THAT WOULD PREVENT THIS FROM HAPPENING IN OUR STATE AGAIN. PENNSYLANIA IS FULL OF PUPPY MILLS AND THESE ALL FOUND ALL THE US. STOP BUYING PEDGREE DOGS AND GO TO THE LOCAL HUMANE SHELTER AND ADOPT. BELIEVE ME, THEY ARE SMARTER AND IN BETTER HEALTH THAN THESE DOGS THAT WERE RESCUED. THINK ABOUT IT, YOU SHOULD SPEND ONE YEAR IN ONE ROOM OF YOUR HOUSE, ONLY THEN COULD YOU BEGIN TO UNDERSTAND WHAT THESE ANIMALS HAVE GONE THRU. MANY OF THESE ANIMALS HAVE NEVER FELT THE GRASS UNDER THEIR FEET. THIS BREEDER NEVER LET ANYONE SEE WHERE SHE KEPT THESE ANIMALS BECAUSE WHAT SHE WAS DOING WAS WRONG. BREEDERS IN THIS STATE SHOULD BE REGISTERED AND INSPECTED BY AN ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER ONCE A YEAR. BUYERS WOULD NOT GET RIPPED OFF,ANIMALS WOULD NOT SUFFER AND WV WOULD NOT GET THIS NEGATIVE ATTENTION FROM THE PRESS. PUPPY MILLS ARE EVERY WHERE IN THE US.
Posted by: Solomon on Aug 26, 2008 at 12:16 PM
17I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work. 18I said in mine heart concerning the estate of the sons of men, that God might manifest them, and that they might see that they themselves are beasts. 19For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all is vanity. 20All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. 21Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth? 22Wherefore I perceive that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?
Posted by: Grapost on Aug 26, 2008 at 12:13 PM
I donated $100.00. Their gonna need all the help they can get. 1,000 dogs ALOT! Unfortunately, the law does not provide adequate punishment for people who treat animals this way.
Posted by: Lorie on Aug 26, 2008 at 12:06 PM
First, let me say that I love animals. But I see so much emotion in this post and it makes me wonder - How many of you are pro-abortion?? If there was this much concern over the brutal murder of babies, this country would STOP ABORTION immediately. Just a thought.
Posted by: Ted on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:40 AM
Most Cows and Chickens are never touched by human hands, except to be slaughtered!
Posted by: TT on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:24 AM
To Luther, all you need is one shell and one bag. Lock, load, point at yourself and pull the trigger.
Posted by: Tila on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:22 AM
Some of you posters blow my mind. Do you not get Animal Rights? How could one say this is no one's business? How could one say the shelters don't need much money to operate? How could one say there are more important human issues (humans usually cause their own problems by the way)? Then we have Luther with a C - Lucifer - you must really amuse yourself. Anybody who can say with a straight face that she could love or properly care for 1000 animals is sad as well. Animals need families, love and affection, not wire cages around them their entire lives. It's pathetic that anyone could do this to so many animals. She's a glorified hoarder and she should be financially responsible for whatever amount it costs to see that each and every dog is placed in a good home. Hopefully they will be spread across the country when good ol' WV makes national news with this sick story. Thanks to the Humane Society for watching out once again for animal protection.
Posted by: Mrs.M. on Aug 26, 2008 at 11:08 AM
What do you want from Hillbillies! They care nothing about the animals, but only the money! Breeders are nothing but money grubbing low lives.
Posted by: carol on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:57 AM
my heart go out to those poor little puppys.when i seen the story i cry.i would love to get one those little puppy to love and take care of if i can please let me know how i canagain my heart go out those little cute puppy hope you find homes for all them
Posted by: Stacy on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:50 AM
Is this the manner in which you chose to die Luther? Really? Shot and buried in a garbage bag. Nice one Luther. You're probably loved by no one to have those kinds of feelings. What a sadistic moron you are.
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 26, 2008 at 10:43 AM
Hey Michelle, animal shelters raise money for ANIMALS not drugs, prostitution or killings, or feeding people. There are different sources that fund different things. Let me tell you, this lady was bothering a lot of people with the noise and the SMELLS. She was not running a legitamite business by any means. She took cash mostly. How much of that do you think the lady reported for tax purposes? Not so legitamite. She's not innocent therefore, we WON'T leave her alone. I for one have a pitiful dog from this lady. It was brought to me one year ago. I had the dog at the emergency vet in Charleston within hours of it coming to my home. He said the dog was less than 48 hours from dying due to malnourshiment, coccidia, dehydration, and overuse of flea chemicals. She had NO HUMAN contact until she came here. Our vet documented EVERYTHING. I think everyone that got a dog from her needs to call the Wood county prosecutor and demand she be prosecuted to the fullest extent.
Posted by: TO LUTHER on Aug 26, 2008 at 09:46 AM
That sounds good let us know where to find you and you can be first!
Posted by: another animal lover on Aug 26, 2008 at 09:31 AM
I have read all the comments and here are my thoughts. All animals are Gods litle creatures. I prefer dogs. In fact, I love my dog. We had to put one to sleep last month and we are still not over it. It's true they are not children. I truly believe if you cannot find compassion in your heart for an animal, you will never have compassion for a person. My dog depends on me for everything in her life. I hope all the dogs find good homes and have a happy life, just as my dog has had for 16 years. And to Luther, you make me sick.
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 26, 2008 at 09:03 AM
Luther, I hope you dont mean that. These ARE God's animals.
Posted by: cyndee on Aug 26, 2008 at 09:00 AM
This is a sad story, but it’s not the only one like it. It's not the only large puppy mill out there. I mean, have you ever been to puppyfind.com?? There are 1,000 of dogs just on there and who knows how many of those breeders are puppy farm breeders. I wish that I could adopt another puppy for my one dog that I have now. I'm sure they will all find new homes. Sad thing is, how many of those new homes are going to be >another< puppy farm? You know that’s what’s going to happen. Cheers to the breeders out there that breed a very small group of dogs, do it for the love of the breed, and do it out of respect of the animal. You yourself are a rare breed. Shame on those who breed because a dog is nothing more than another paycheck. I bet the woman didn’t even pay her taxes on those dogs. If its $3 a dog like it is here, that’s $3,000 right there she just owes that state for at least ONE year she’s had those dogs. Make her pay that PLUS the $100,000 to rescue those poor things. Kudos to the volunteers helping out with this eye opening situation. Last thing I have to say about this goes out to whom ever is GOING to adopt. GET THAT DOG SPADE OR NEUTERED if it’s not already done by the pound that you get it from. It’s healthier for them, and the over populated dog society around us. In fact, make that woman pay to have all of them spade and neutered. That will surly kick her in the gut for doing what she did. That will also keep other puppy farm breeders from trying to adopt them and breed more out of them. It’s a win win situation. God Bless America.
Posted by: michelle on Aug 26, 2008 at 07:34 AM
I think that if the animals were in good health and that it is a business that we should mind our own business and leave them alone, they looked wonderful on the television , i think we are just borrowing trouble bothering innocent people that are trying to run a legitamite business. I agree with one reader, There are a lot of other problems, drugs, prostitution, killings to worry about than to bother a person trying to run a business that is not bothering anyone. I love animals but this is so rediculous. Thats 200,000dollars that could have fed some people anfd clothed them, we are getting so mixed up in whats important, I am a christian and i would never hurt an animal but i dont think that is the case at all, i think someone needs to mind their OWN business and leave innocent people alone for ever more.
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 26, 2008 at 05:14 AM
sounds to me like these people are trying to make extra money off someone elses expense! looks to me like this woman has been doing this since 1960's. and these people picked a fight with her husband and he ended up in jail! leave it to wv! they didnt look neglected to me! what about all the dogs and horses on deer pen, big seven mile, i could go on, that are walking skeletons? its all about money!
Posted by: Jean on Aug 26, 2008 at 01:21 AM
This is very sad. I hope all of these dogs get adopted by someone that can give them the attention and love that they deserve! ....Luther, your sick in the head! You need help.
Posted by: Jerri on Aug 25, 2008 at 11:48 PM
I think it is a shame someone would do this to their animals. Obviously she had too many to take care of. I am a owner of a dashound and I could never see myself doing this to him. I would love to adopt one of these animals to let my dog have a companion and show it the love it deserves.
Posted by: Alan on Aug 25, 2008 at 11:35 PM
This lady paid for all the food, help, medical care, and anything else these dogs recieved. The Shelter has everything donated to them from large pet food comapnies, major chain stores, as well as medical care donated by vets and groomers even donating the grooming for these dogs. Volunteers do 90% of the work. Expensive TV commercials raise millions of dollars. County and state goverments provide the premises for the shelters to conduct thier business. Dog taxes are charged in WV to everyone that owns a dog. That money goes to help run the shelter and then the shelter still cahrges rediculious fees to adopt these dogs. WHOSE REALLY MAKING THE MONEY???
Posted by: Diana on Aug 25, 2008 at 10:56 PM
This is the clear result of the use of breeders rather than shelters. There are millions of dogs each year put down in shelters across the US just for this exact reason - puppy mills. How can this woman, or those doing the exact same thing, sleep at night knowing she kept these poor animals prisoner in cages without HUMAN CONTACT their entire lives? It makes me sick that she will probably not even be prosecuted because after she was caught red-handed, she gave over the dogs willingly. I hope at least the animal pollution citations will be pushed to the limits of the law. GET YOUR PETS FROM SHELTERS, put all of these horrid people out of business.
Posted by: Anna on Aug 25, 2008 at 10:19 PM
This is sad, the Humane Society will never adopt all of these dogs and the majority of them will be put to sleep. These dogs were cared for by more than just her. I know from experience. Each of the dogs were called by their name as well as handled and loved. Sharon knows more about dogs than most Vets. She made sure they each were up to date on everything. If they needed to go to the Vet she took them no matter what time of day or night and at any expense. As far as the waste problem, she installed septic systems to handle the waste again going to any extreme to care for her dogs. Thses dogs were her life, waking up at daylight and working and caring for them until 10 or 11 at night every day 7 days a week 365 days a year! How many of you would do that??
Posted by: Animal Lover on Aug 25, 2008 at 09:52 PM
To Luther, you are one sick and disturbed person. You need help.
Posted by: Donna on Aug 25, 2008 at 09:45 PM
It really breaks my heart to see the little white wirehaired terrier w/ the red ears. Just setting in the staff's arms and looking around w/ no emotions expressed except a distance stare. No I don't know the breed of the dog but I know that's not normal.
Posted by: Tara on Aug 25, 2008 at 09:33 PM
I am interested in adopting one of these puppies. Who do I contact?
Posted by: Jim on Aug 25, 2008 at 08:10 PM
http://hsop.org/ is the arkersburg web site with all the information. P.O. Box 392 • 29th and Poplar Streets • Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101
Posted by: Emma on Aug 25, 2008 at 08:05 PM
I am interested in adopting one of the dogs from Parkersburg
Posted by: Heather on Aug 25, 2008 at 07:52 PM
Some people don't like children and actually prefer pets. I know that I do. Why should we have to put children before pets if we don't prefer them? Especially if we don't have children ourselves. YOU can put YOUR children before pets if YOU like, but that doesn't mean everyone does. Stupid soccer moms...
Posted by: kim on Aug 25, 2008 at 06:42 PM
Where can I go to adopt one of these rescued dogs from Parkersburg?
Posted by: Lily on Aug 25, 2008 at 06:28 PM
This is awful and some of you people should be the ones in the trash bags!!!! God gave everyone a heart use it. and yes please if there is anyway anyone can take another dog please go addopt!!!!
Posted by: Frank on Aug 25, 2008 at 06:28 PM
I wish ther were more details on who to contact about adopting one or more of the Doxies, we have two but could make room for some more if need be. This appears to be a puppy mill, from which most of the dogs you see in the pet stores come from. Usually you get inferior quality in the purebreds from puppy mills, but not always.
Posted by: DNM on Aug 25, 2008 at 05:55 PM
To MANY people pets are the only children they will ever have. to people who cannot have children, pets are their babies, to elderly people- pets are their companion and loved one, to children- pets are their best friend. The reason we have so many dog neglect/abuse is the same reason we have child neglect/abuse -- instead of coming together to make the world a better place, we divide. in the scheme of things, our opinion doesn't even matter.. its the big guy upstairs. remember that when you have the audacity to pick one life over another as unimportant.
Posted by: Tiger on Aug 25, 2008 at 05:51 PM
Prosecute the people involved with this puppy mill. This type of behavior is not acceptable. Adopt the dogs out and let the people who adopt them pay the medical bills for the dogs. I'm sure if they are purebred dogs, they won't be hard to adopt out to loving families.
Posted by: Whatever on Aug 25, 2008 at 02:38 PM
Put Luther will the dogs!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 25, 2008 at 02:25 PM
Luther, get over it. We see you have posted the same stupid comment twice about shells and trashbags. Do you have anything better to do than to sit here all day and post something so pointless? I guess not! No this story isn't about kids. So people aren't going to comment on kids being neglected. They come here to comment on the neglect of dogs. That's how this works. You can comment on the current story you are here to read about, not the ones you wish you were reading about. So don't bother commenting on how it's not kids so who cares. That's obvious! Back to the story now! This woman wasn't having hard times financially. This is what she did for the sake of being greedy. She's been doing this for a very long time. AKC had stripped her of her rights to register and even fined her for lying on paperwork. She was registering dogs through a shady registery and getting big money for the "registered" dogs. She's not some poor old lady that got in over her head. She's a fraud and nasty.
Posted by: Jerome on Aug 25, 2008 at 01:48 PM
Depending on the breed I could take a couple of your hands. I do have several right now but could always use another dog. I especially like the red nose ones.
Posted by: Luther on Aug 25, 2008 at 01:31 PM
I got a simple solution that will save everyone money...plain math too, none of that high level stuff. - Box of .22 shells = 4 dollars - Box of trashbags = 2 dollars DONE
Posted by: ED on Aug 25, 2008 at 12:43 PM
From the pictures the kennels look better the the Kanawha Charleston humane's kennels. I have two friends go there to adopt and both dogs came home sick! One died
Posted by: Raven on Aug 25, 2008 at 11:53 AM
WHO WAS THIS WOMENS VET. They should be stripped of their license to practice. Iam sure she didnt take 1000 dogs to town to have their shots and examinations.Do some investigation Please WSAZ this will be covered up in Parkersburg. Thats the reason this has been going on for Years.POLITICAL CONNECTIONS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF COURSE.
Posted by: Ashley on Aug 25, 2008 at 11:17 AM
And we wonder why people call WV citizen's ignorant and uneducated... $100,000 divided by 1,000 dogs equal $100/dog. Which wont really go far in the way of caring for these animals. Have a heart people. No one can care for 1,000 dogs unless they have a very large team of handlers. This is obviously a case of neglect. While times are tough, I don't think we've quite reached the point where certain state-funded programs should be completely neglected. All of you who say that we shouldn't worry about the neglect of an animal, take a note from that Bible you like to thump on: God entrusted Adam with the care of animals.
Posted by: Duh on Aug 25, 2008 at 10:41 AM
Parkersburg Resident, I can CLEARLY see you DON'T have a math degree...or can't even count for that matter. "100,00" isn't even a number!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 25, 2008 at 09:30 AM
I wish you people would stop comparing dogs to children. OMG animals aren't people. PEOPLE should come first. it doesn't sound like these DOGS were abused anyway. Why not be more concerned about making sure children aren't being abused!
Posted by: Jim on Aug 25, 2008 at 09:26 AM
In China they raise dogs,mostly St.Bernards like we raise rabbits,chickens and other cute animals.Only difference is its for meat.Of coarse they had to keep it out of the news so the Americans would not complain during the Olympics.
Posted by: Becky on Aug 25, 2008 at 09:05 AM
I have 5 miniature dachshunds and 1 mixed breed. I can not imagine having that many dogs in my home!! What really makes me angry is that these poor babies were in little cages with no room to move and were bred over and over again. This lady DOES need to be prosecuted because this was cruel to these dogs. How I would love to adopt one or more, but I have enough dogs. Perhaps many others will find a place in their hearts and make a home for these sweet little things. Unless you've shared your life with a dachshund, you will never know why I speak of them in such a loving manner. They are loving, loyal and active, but are content to sit in your lap as well. I hope many of you reading this will run as fast as you can to Parkersburg and adopt, adopt, adopt!!!!!
Posted by: Luther on Aug 25, 2008 at 08:36 AM
i see some don't have good math on here...well i never claimed to, but here is my math: - Box of fifty .22 shells = $4.00 - Box of garbage bags = 2.50 There you have it folks, problem solved.
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 25, 2008 at 08:25 AM
$100,000 ?? This lady created the problem. She should be responsible for paying this money! I can't believe the people that have said that someone can take care of 1,000 dogs! There is no way a group of 12 people could take care of these dogs the WAY THEY SHOULD BE TREATED! Do you know how much dog food is?! I have 2 big dogs and one little one and it is hard enough to feed them, brush them, bath them and give them all the attention they need. I just can't believe you people who think that this is ok! I read in the paper were people put adds in the paper to sale these dogs and they list 5 or 6 different breeds of dogs....come on people dont buy from puppy mills, it so sad what they go thru but if the owners do not make any money, they will stop!
Posted by: earl wells on Aug 25, 2008 at 08:11 AM
I hear in India they make all kinds of beauty products for dog manure
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 25, 2008 at 06:59 AM
This lady is a puppymill. She posed as a breeder that used to show dogs but wanted to stay home and just play with them and love them. But when you went there to look at a dog, she wouldn't let you near her kennels. She made you pick a dog from her website and then she would have it ready in a crate for you in a shack by her house. She didn't want anyone to know she was running a very dirty puppymill. If you read the story from the sentinel, she was turned in for pollution. She never cleaned up the mess from all those dogs. Many didn't have access to fresh water. No this isn't children we are talking about. But it's a crime to treat a living being like this. I think Sharon Roberts, the owner, needs to pay the $100,000 for the cleanup and rescue. She sure made enough money on those poor animals to afford it. It's because of people like her that so many animals are neglected. This lady is a greedy monster.
Posted by: Pablo on Aug 25, 2008 at 06:10 AM
I think the kennel owner should pay all costs in the rescue of the dogs ($100,000). Why should the county/state foot the bill when the kennel owner has casused this problem. And of course, the kennel owner should be fined/jailed for any pollution violation. This is how you stop these things from happening in the first place. Its really simple, just hold people accountable for their actions.
Posted by: Parkersburg Resident on Aug 25, 2008 at 04:17 AM
I can clearly see we have some people with math degrees on here. 100,00 divided by 1,000 is 100. $100 per dog...that isn't gonna touch the cost of rescuing these puppies. By the time you add up the cost to transport, feed, bath, have a vet check EACH dog, and the cost while the dog is waiting to be adopted, $100,00 isn't near enough. And to say the animails weren't abused is rubbish! Animals have feelings and emotions just like humans, or at least MOST humans. Try putting a child in a cage, not letting it out, not talking or interacting with it. Just feeding it and giving it water. Just enough to survive. Would you say the child wasn't abused because they were fed and given water? I'm thinking not.
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 25, 2008 at 03:58 AM
Well, thats a HOT DOG! That seems like a lot of money, $10,000 per dog. Must be some breeding line! I wonder why parkersburg resident listed the web site to donate--seems like $10,000 would go a long way.
Posted by: Laura H on Aug 25, 2008 at 02:03 AM
Someone needs to check their math. $100,000 divided by 1,000 dogs is only $100 a dog. Let's remember that not all of this will go towards food alone, but the vitamins and meds these dogs are surely going to need. And lets compare apples to apples here a human life compared to a dog's is an unfair comparison. These dogs did not ask to be born or treated this way, but they are here now and to not take care of them would not only be irresponsible, but it would be reprehensible.
Posted by: Parkersburg Resident on Aug 25, 2008 at 01:50 AM
You can read more about this story by going to www.newsandsentinel.com. Many of these dogs were stuck in a mesh/wire cage with 2-3 other dogs. Many have never been touched by a human, much less have been taken out of their cage. They can't walk on grass, the literally fall over. They have to be taught how to walk on grass. This is a huge issue for the Parkersburg Humane Society, and they can use all the help they can get. They will be adopting out the dogs, but not until August 30th. To help, please contact the Parkersburg Humane Society at(304) 422-5541. You can also donate on their website at http://www.hsop.org/ PLEASE consider helping these puppies out!
Posted by: Shawn on Aug 25, 2008 at 01:21 AM
All 1,000 dogs were purebred dachshunds ???
Posted by: Laura on Aug 25, 2008 at 12:30 AM
If there were no signs of neglect then this is wrong unless there is just a yard full of doggie doo. And how do they know they were NEVER touched?
Posted by: Miss M on Aug 24, 2008 at 11:56 PM
If people would quit buying designer animals and give shelter animals a chance eventually people will quit doing this. When a dog can fetch a grand or more idiots will attempt to breed more and more animals that they only see as potential dollar signs in poor and unsanitary conditions. Give a shelter animal a chance, you won't be dissapointed. I sure wasn't.
Posted by: snoopy on Aug 24, 2008 at 11:47 PM
what a waste of money. $100,000 would keep alot of poor warm this winter instead of using it on dogs there going to knock in the head & throw in a hole anyway.
Posted by: Jerome on Aug 24, 2008 at 11:14 PM
Are they all the small 'kickdogs' or are there large breeds? Can we adopt the large breed dogs? I have a lot of kennels and could really use some more large breeds. Where can I go to get a list of the breeds that are available? I'm very interested.
Posted by: un known on Aug 24, 2008 at 11:01 PM
this is a attack from society. She had help taken care of rthese animals . give her a brake trying to live in todays society
Posted by: tony on Aug 24, 2008 at 10:32 PM
how do i go about adopting a dog? from this story
Posted by: Dottie on Aug 24, 2008 at 10:25 PM
will these dogs be up for adoption please let me know they are very good pets I have one that is blind. and would love to have another
Posted by: reader on Aug 24, 2008 at 09:50 PM
$100,000.00 for a rescue operation? that is $10,000.00 for each dog. get real...who gets to pay the cost? who gets to keep what is left out of the $100,000.00?
Posted by: Confused? on Aug 24, 2008 at 09:36 PM
ok, so the dogs had not been abused, the people are not being cited for neglect...so whats the problem. i dont see anything wrong with having as many animals as you want, as long as they aren't neglected or abused. quit worrying about the animals, and worry about REAL problems in this world today, like poverty, drugs and violence among people.
Posted by: Anonymous on Aug 24, 2008 at 08:33 PM
how much does the human society put in their pocket ? $10,000 a dog, be real.
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