A Tecumseh man with the Tri-County Humane Society is caring for and feeding 153 dogs after the operator of an alleged puppy mill signed them over to him after experiencing difficulty taking care of them.
Now he’s looking for a few good homes — and needs lots of dog food.
Alan Baxter said he loves animals and knew he had to do something when he discovered the dogs at the facility in Bethel Acres.
“Animals depend on humans,” he said. “They’re ready for somebody just to love them.”
The woman, whose identity wasn’t revealed by Baxter, was attempting to feed the dogs and puppies, but she was reportedly having some difficulty affording it, he said. Her neighbors were trying help her feed the animals until they could no longer afford it, he said.
When Baxter heard about the place, he went there to look for a puppy. The woman was buying dog food, but he said he didn’t think it was enough.
Baxter said the woman told him the facility was her husband’s business. She had been trying to run it since he died, but she was spending much of her paycheck on dog food. Baxter said he asked her if she would sign over the animals to him so he could care for them.
“Her exact words were, ‘The Lord sent you’,” he said. “She knew we were there to help.”
Baxter said he took 33 of the smaller dogs to his Tecumseh acreage Monday night. The puppies, all pure breeds, included chihuahuas, Yorkies, Shih Tzus and beagles. There’s still 120 of the larger dogs staying put until he can make arrangements for them, he said. Until then, he said he is feeding and caring for those animals there.
Most of the dogs were in good condition, he said, although some were hungry and one dog died of alleged starvation. Several of the dogs are pregnant; one of those dogs was showing the beginning signs of having her puppies Tuesday afternoon, he said, so it looks like he’ll have 153 dogs — and counting.
Baxter said some of the dogs appear timid, but most just want human attention. As he was talking, about seven of the dogs surrounded his feet for attention. He said they enjoy running around outside.
Before taking the 33 dogs to his home on 40 acres, Baxter said he and his wife, Cara, were already caring for 16 dogs, four cats and two horses as part of their efforts with the Tri-County Humane Society.
And with added dogs, comes the need for more food and veterinary care. So far, Baxter said he has a full-time job and is funding food and vet care out of his own pocket, but he’s looking for much-needed help as he expects to go through about 500 pounds of dog food per week.
Baxter said he’ll be working to find homes for the dogs. Because many have been through enough trauma, Baxter said he wants to make sure they will get good homes, so he’ll be following up with any adopters. He also will make sure these pets will be spayed or neutered.
To help with the Humane Society’s cause, which works to rescue animals and donate feed to those needing help taking care of animals, Baxter said he may consider selling some of the pure-bred dogs and then use those funds for more rescue efforts.
Anyone wanting information on how to adopt one of the rescued dogs can call Baxter at 618-0010 or 397-9057.
Did you Know?
Those wanting to help feed the dogs can bring dog food and/or donations for Baxter’s efforts to The Shawnee News-Star, 215 N. Bell.
