Humane Society assists in removal of 160 dogs in animal cruelty investigation

HARBOR SPRINGS — On Friday, Jan. 28, members of Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Department and East Bay Township requested the assistance of Grand Traverse County Animal Control after responding to a blight complaint.

Having previous knowledge of this property, Grand Traverse County Animal Control Officers requested additional assistance from Little Traverse Bay Humane Society. Humane society director of operations, Elise Ramsey, and training and behavior specialist, Sarah Schertel, who both have previous experience in animal cruelty-related investigations, made the drive to Traverse City to assist. They were accompanied by humane society shelter and community medicine veterinarian, Dr. Diane Gildersleeve, and shelter veterinary technician, Morgan Fox.

After discovery of more than 30 dogs outside at the property, concerns for the dogs' wellbeing surfaced and a forensic veterinarian was requested to join on scene. It was soon determined that all the dogs would be removed from the property. Many other agencies including, but not limited to, Cherryland Humane Society, Clare County Animal Control, Wexford County Animal Control, Charlevoix County Animal Control, Otsego County Animal Control, Kalkaska County Animal Control, and Roscommon County Animal Control sent staff to assist resulting in the removal of more than 160 dogs from the property.

“As an agency, we are humbled to have had the opportunity to work with so many passionate, hardworking and like-minded individuals during this operation,” said humane society executive director, Danielle Blasko. “

We are thrilled that we have staff to dedicate their expertise and training in this case. We are grateful that each of these dogs are now in good hands, finally being given the care they deserve.”

In the coming weeks the humane society will be working closely with the Cherryland Humane Society to take in some of their available animals. Little Traverse Bay Humane Society will also likely receive some of the dogs from this situation, though specifics remain unknown at this time.

“We’d like to thank everyone involved in helping rescue these dogs,” said Blasko. “For those who would like to help in this situation, consider opening your heart and home to a homeless animal or becoming a foster to an animal in need.”

To make a donation toward the care of these animals or to learn more about fostering or adoption, please go to www.ltbhs.com or call (231) 347-2396.

This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Humane Society assists in removal of 160 dogs in animal cruelty investigation