NORMAN — According to Norman Animal Welfare, officers received a complaint on July 19 from a citizen that the residence at 13780 Mesquite Road in Norman was running a “puppy mill.” Animal Welfare Officer Trey Amrein was assigned to investigate the complaint.
A press release from the agency stated, Amrein went to the residence and attempted to contact the resident. At that time, he observed several dogs in the back yard and left a notice at the residence.
According to the release, later that afternoon, Amrein talked with the resident who refused to cooperate with him when he wanted to inspect the residence for the health and welfare of the animals.
While at the residence, Amrein noted a strong odor of urine coming from the residence and heard a number of dogs barking inside. The release stated Amrein searched the Internet and found that the residence had a number of dogs listed for sale.
Animal Welfare officers partnered with the Norman Police Department’s Narcotics unit. An undercover investigation was started. According to the release, undercover officers went to the residence and, based upon their investigation, a warrant was obtained to search the residence.
Officers executed the search warrant on July 23, according to Norman Animal Welfare. Investigators found 27 dogs and identified another location where adult breeding dogs were kept.
Officers from the Norman Police Department seized all of the dogs from 13780 Mesquite for animal cruelty.
Officers also visited the kennel operation, in Oklahoma City within Cleveland County, according to Norman Animal Welfare. When officers arrived at that location, it was determined that the dogs were being kept in very poor conditions.
The release stated Norman officers immediately notified the Oklahoma City Animal Welfare. Both agencies removed all of the dogs from this second location and Oklahoma City took her into custody.
