The "Missouri 75"

River Valley Kennels, Ozark County, Missouri was an unlicensed breeding operation. The owner had been investigated in the past, and was fined for operating without a license. The kennel had NEVER passed a state inspection. The Department of Agriculture began investigating the kennels in September 2008, when animal abuse and neglect was suspected.

At that time, the owner surrendered 50 dogs to the Dept. of Agriculture, and was fined. He was given until January 31 to obtain a license and pass an inspection without violations.

Said to be distraught over the recent separation from his wife, financial difficulties, and the prospect of losing his animals, the owner allegedly set fire to his property on February 24. Some of the animals were critically wounded, and sent for specialty care in the state of MO.

The remaining 200 animals - English Springer Spaniels, Boxers, German Shorthaired Pointers and various mixed breed dogs, were all transported to rescue groups for rehabilitation and medical care. Midwest PAWS, a licensed MO rescue group that focuses on GSPs, Pointers and Weims, decided to take on the care of all of the GSPs from the confiscation. The group’s rescue vet donated a large kennel space to the group, as well as an adjacent building (and a large fenced yard).

The first round of GSPs arrived on Friday, Feb. 27, with the second group arriving on Saturday. The dogs were in need of complete veterinary work-ups, treatment for burns, stitches for open wounds, spay/neuter, treatment for tick infestation, vaccinations, de-worming, etc. If you’d like to make a donation to help provide care for these GSPs, please visit www.midwestpaws.com.

The GSPCA National Rescue is offering financial assistance, as well as foster homes to help these dogs find their way to a brighter future.

Note: The owner of River Valley Kennels is currently incarcerated in MO, facing felony arson charges. Additional charges may follow.

If you are an experienced foster home, GSP Rescue volunteer, or an experienced sporting dog owner, and are interested in fostering one of the “Missouri 75” please contact Michelle Salyers at msalyers@gsprescuene.org.