Here's a letter to the editor of the Roane County News written by Sherrie Farver who has been active in helping the rescued dogs. Keep in mind that the Dodd woman STILL has a large number of dogs in her possession and the inhumane treatment of these animals is ongoing. The hearing is set for this coming Monday. I am trying to find out what time and will post it when I know.

December 8, 2009

Editor
P.O. Box 610
Kingston, TN 37763

Life as a puppy mill dog

The hearing date of Dec. 14th for alleged Roane County puppy mill operator, Marjorie Dodd, is growing near. We who have sought veterinary care for the 28 dogs seized from her property and opened our homes to provide foster care and safe haven for them, hope that justice is fully served. These innocent victims have multiple health problems. Their skin conditions, rotting teeth, infected gums, sores, tumors, ear infections, mange, matted hair, and flea infestation are visual indicators of the neglect and the suffering they have endured.

We have imminent concern for the 80 dogs that District Attorney General, Russell Johnson, chose to ignore by failure to pursue their immediate removal from the property as well. In addition, our legal rights as law-abiding citizens were compromised by his refusal to petition the court for Ms. Dodd to post a bond of security for the expenses incurred for the dogs taken in by local rescue groups.

Can any of us begin to imagine what it would be like to live as a puppy mill dog? A small area of confinement covered with urine and feces is the home provided. There is little to no human contact. Professional veterinary care is not provided as the owner keeps expense to a bare minimum.

The strong stench of ammonia in the air is so thick that breathing is difficult especially in the heat of the summer months. Water, necessary for life, is often contaminated with algae or bodily excrement. Food is cheap and stale. And the fleas…..they thrive year round in this type of environment. Even mange and chronic skin conditions do not interfere as they relentlessly feed from the bodies of their hosts.

And then, puppies are born into this domain of filth and disease. Being the source of income and profit, they will be sold as quickly as possible to the unwary consumer before sickness manifests. As an adult breeder dog, the cycle will continue yet again and again. The physical and mental degradation is unbearable, yet there is no choice but to bear it for this is life in a puppy mill to those who survive.

The Humane Society of the United States has launched a national tip line and encourages callers to report suspected cruelty or unlawful activities involving puppy mills. The hotline, 1-877-MILL-TIP is available to anyone with information. Please do not purchase the puppies that you see at flea markets or at pet stores. Most likely, their parents endure a wretched life in conditions such as those just described.

Sherrie Farver
Link...
Ten Mile