Twenty-seven chihuahua-type dogs were removed July 2 from a hoarding house situation in the 4500 block of Fleming Street in Dearborn Heights.
By SUE SUCHYTA
Times-Herald Newspapers
HEIGHTS – Twenty-seven chihuahua-type dogs were removed July 2 from a hoarder house situation in the 4500 block of Fleming Street following an animal cruelty case investigation.
Dearborn Heights ordinance and animal control employees were executing a search warrant following the killing of a dog that resulting in a felony warrant for animal cruelty, killing and torture in the second degree, coupled with a misdemeanor charge for animal abandonment and cruelty.
When they entered the house, the employees discovered “horrific conditions” with respect to smell, animal waste and sanitation throughout the interior.
The 20th District Court then issued a search and seizure warrant to allow the removal of the dogs from the house.
With the assistance of animal control staff from Redford Township, Garden City and Highland Park, the dogs were all removed from the dwelling for their health and well-being and assessed by veterinary professionals.
The rescued dogs included a litter of four puppies and a mother.
The dogs were formally surrendered by their owner before being transferred to a Michigan Humane Society shelter, which will provide veterinary attention, vaccinations and other appropriate care.
The resident was allowed to remove personal belonging prior to the house being condemned.
Dearborn Heights Ordinance and Animal Control Director Lee Lafeve thanked the animal control professionals from surrounding communities for their assistance.
“We could not have done this task nearly as effectively had it not been for their help, as well as the assistance we received from the Dearborn Heights police department,” he said. “Everyone’s professionalism and love of animals was clearly shown through this incident.”
Lafeve said the investigation is ongoing, and more charges are pending.