Target: Kristen Tuohy, Christian County Prosecuting Attorney, Missouri
Goal: Seek felony cruelty charges, restitution, and a lifetime animal-ownership ban for the individual accused of keeping roughly 150 dogs in squalor.
Authorities and an animal-rescue task force say they discovered around 150 Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, and other small breeds crammed inside a residence, many of them malnourished and suffering from skin infections and parasite infestations. Rescue personnel described the living conditions as “horrific,” noting that without intervention the animals would apparently have continued to languish in neglect.
According to the Humane Society team leading the operation, the owner surrendered the dogs only after negotiations. Despite the apparent severity of the animals’ condition—visible ribs, matted fur, open sores—no criminal penalties have yet been announced. Similar hoarding cases too often end with minimal consequences, enabling future neglect.
The identity of the person responsible has not yet been publicly identified.
A forceful legal response is vital. Felony cruelty charges, significant incarceration, mandatory psychological evaluation, restitution for veterinary costs, and a permanent prohibition on possessing animals would honor the suffering these dogs endured and deter others from hoarding.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Attorney Tuohy,
Rescuers recently removed an estimated 150 dogs from a local home after they were allegedly found malnourished, parasite-ridden, and housed in unsanitary confinement. Photographs and veterinary assessments suggest that many of the animals were underweight, their skin raw from untreated infestations and infections.
Such prolonged neglect meets the threshold for felony animal cruelty. When dozens of vulnerable creatures are left to starve and suffer, accountability must be swift and uncompromising. A light penalty would fail to reflect the magnitude of harm and would not discourage future large-scale hoarding.
We urge your office to file the strongest possible charges, seek meaningful jail time, mandate restitution and counseling, and impose a lifelong prohibition on owning or keeping animals. A decisive prosecution will send a clear message that extreme neglect will not be tolerated.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Toronja Azul
