2023 USDA Violations- Quarter 1

Bailing Out Benji is a national nonprofit organization that exists to provide transparency into the puppy mill industry. We forensically audit government health records and inspection reports in order to connect puppy mills and commercial dog breeders to the various outlets in which they sell. We pay for many of these documents and then make them available for free on our website and to the public in order to provide the transparency that the public deserves before buying a puppy. 

To see our pet store and online broker research, click here.

According to the USDA: An inspection report documents an inspector’s observations and professional assessments of compliance at facilities regulated under the AWA. Below we have compiled a list of all of the USDA dog breeders and brokers that have had violations in Quarter 1 of 2023.

This time period is from January 1, 2023, to March 31, 2023. 

Editors note: USDA inspectors have 5 days to give a copy of their inspection to the licensee and 30 days to publish their reports online. There may be additional facilities we add to this list once more inspection reports are added to the database.

Omitted from these violations are missed inspections. The list below also only reflects dog and cat breeders and brokers (licenses A and B).

This list of violations below was obtained from the USDA APHIS search engine. Any pet store connections were obtained from various state departments of agriculture. 

You can view our 2022 Quarterly Violation Reports here

If you have any questions about the breeders listed on this report or our methodology for obtaining this information, please email our research analyst: Alexis Bell, research@bailingoutbenji.com

This time period is from January 1, 2023, to March 31, 2023. 

Arkansas

Elisa Brandvik. Ozark, Arkansas- Brandvik also received violations in Quarter 3 and Quarter 4 of 2022, with an official warning in Quarter 3. At the time of their February 13, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Brandvik received 5 non-critical violations pertaining to requirements and application, housing facilities, outdoor housing facilities, watering, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Elisa Brandvik 2.13.23

Frank Foster. Hindsville, Arkansas- Foster also received violations in Quarter 4 of 2022. At the time of their January 24, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Foster received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and primary enclosures. We have record of this facility selling puppies to at least one pet store in Connecticut. Frank Foster 1.24.23

Gary Brown and Carolyn Brown. Van Buren, Arkansas- Brown received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations they received on December 1, 2022 and has since canceled their license. USDA Warning Gary Brown & Carolyn Brown

Karen Griffith. Mountainview, Arkansas- At the time of their February 10, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Griffith received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care that affected 2 dogs, and 1 non-critical violation pertaining to time and method of identification. Griffith received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations received on February 10, 2023. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in Florida and Connecticut. Karen Griffith 2.10.23   USDA Warning Karen Griffith

Rhonda Baerwald. Sulphur Springs, Arkansas- At the time of their January 25, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Baerwald received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning, primary enclosures, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Florida. Rhonda Baerwald 1.25.23

Connecticut

All Pets Club Inc. New Haven, Connecticut- At the time of their February 8, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, All Pets Club received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. All Pets Club Inc 2.8.23

Florida 

Exclusive Paws LLC. Port St. Lucie, Florida- At the time of their February 28, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Exclusive Paws received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to requirements and application (where they moved to a new location but did not notify the Agency of move and does not have new location covered by license) and access and inspection of records and property; submission of itineraries. Exclusive Paws LLC 2.28.23

Illinois

Raymond Schlabach, Dreamy Puppy LLC. Campbel Hill, Illinois- At the time of their March 16, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Dreamy Puppy received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (a violation that affects 4 dogs) and veterinary care for dogs. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in 3 states. Dreamy Puppy 3.16.23

Indiana

Daniel F. Wingard, Valleyhill Pups. Bristol, Indiana- Wingard also received violations in Quarter 3 of 2022 which included 1 direct violation. At the time of their January 18, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Wingard received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in 2 states and to the broker Up North Trading Co. Daniel F. Wingard 1.18.23

Dewayne Yoder, Trackside Kennels. Goshen, Indiana- At the time of their January 17, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Yoder received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in Connecticut and Illinois. Dewayne Yoder 1.17.23

Elmer Raber and Carolyn Raber, Cedar Lane Kennels. Loogootee, Indiana- At the time of their February 16, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Raber received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in Connecticut and Virginia. Elmer Raber and Carolyn Raber 2.16.23

Floyd Borntrager, Kuntry Lane Kennel. Salem, Indiana- Borntrager received an Official USDA Warning stemming from a violation received on January 13, 2023. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in 4 states. At the time of this article being written, Borntrager’s inspection report was not available online. USDA Warning Floyd Borntrager

Kevin Ray Miller. Milford, Indiana- At the time of their January 18, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Miller received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Kevin Ray Miller 1.18.23

Nathan Yoder, Joanne Yoder and Mac Vanover, A Heart For Puppies LLC AKA Posh Puppies.  Bristol, Indiana- At the time of their February 9, 2023, USDA routine inspection, A Heart For Puppies received 1 non-critical violation for moving the facility to another location without notifying the USDA. A Heart For Puppies LLC 2.9.23

Philip Imhoff. Rochester, Indiana- At the time of their March 2, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Imhoff received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Philip Imhoff 3.2.23

Roger K. Miller. Montgomery, Indiana- Miller also received a violation in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their January 19, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Miller received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. This violation affected 3 dogs. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in Connecticut. Roger Miller 1.19.23

Steven Yoder. LaGrange, Indiana- At the time of their March 22, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Yoder received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care of dogs. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Missouri and to the brokering website PuppySpot. Steven Yoder 3.22.23

Iowa

Allen Koedam and Wanda Koedam, Koedams Kountry Kennels. Rock Rapids, Iowa- At the time of their February 16, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Koedam received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification, primary enclosures, and veterinary care for dogs. Allen Koedam & Wanda Koedam 2.16.23

Amos Bontrager and Eugene Bontrager, Cantril Kennel. Keosaliqua, Iowa- At the time of their January 4, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Cantril Kennel received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Connecticut. Note: Canceled first license in 2022 and obtained a new one. Cantril Kennels 1.4.23

Barbara Hammen and Martin Hammen, S.R.K Kennel. Jolley, Iowa- At the time of their February 15, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Hammen received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to requirements and application. Canceled license in 2021 but found to have been selling puppies through Puppies.com over the last year (2022). Requires a license for this type of interstate commerce and when the breeder has more than 4 female breeding age dogs. They have since gotten a new license. Hammen received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations received on February 15, 2023 and has since canceled license. Barbara Hammen & Martin Hammen 2.15.23 USDA Warning Barbara Hammen & Martin Hammen

Carla Couchman, C&L Puppies. Weldon, Iowa- At the time of their December 30, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Couchman received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to records, housing facilities, and feeding, which affected 19 adult dogs. *This entry is added in Q1 instead of last Quarter due to the timing of the report’s release.  Carla Couchman 12.30.22

David Horning. Ionia, Iowa- At the time of their February 28, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Horning received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (5 dogs and 1 deceased puppy affected by violation), and 5 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification, housing facilities, indoor housing facilities, and veterinary care for dogs. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in Connecticut and Minnesota. Horning received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations received on February 28, 2023, and has since canceled their USDA license. David Horning 2.28.23 USDA Warning David Horning

Dennis Van Wyk and Donna Van Wyk, Prairie Lane Kennel. New Sharon, Iowa- Van Wyk also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their January 12, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Van Wyk received 6 non-critical violations pertaining to attending a veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, records, housing facilities (6 dogs and puppies affected), sheltered housing, compatible grouping, and veterinary care for dogs. Note: Has a history of violations in previous years. Dennis Van Wyk & Donna Van Wyk 1.12.23

Elias H. Mast, Shady Ridge Kennels. Bloomfield, Iowa- At the time of their February 28, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Mast received 5 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and veterinary care for dogs. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 6 states. Elias H. Mast 2.28.23

Heath Meyers, Century Farm Puppies. Grundy Center, Iowa- At the time of their March 1, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Meyers received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (5 dogs affected by violation), and 4 non-critical violations pertaining to records, primary enclosures, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. Heath Meyers 3.1.23 USDA Official Warning Heath Meyers

Helene Hamrick, Wolf Point Kennel. Ackworth, Iowa- At the time of their March 14, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Hamrick received 6 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (2 dogs affected by violation), time and method of identification, records, housing facilities, primary enclosures, and veterinary care for dogs. Helene Hamrick 3.14.23

Henry Detweiler and Mary Beth Detweiler, Detweiler’s Kennel. Fairbank, Iowa- Detweiler also received violations in Quarter 4 of 2022. At the time of their February 13, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Detweiler received 1 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification. Henry Detweiler 2.13.23 

Henry Sommers, Happy Puppys. Cincinnati, Iowa- Sommers, who received violations in all 4 Quarters of 2022 canceled his USDA license in Q1 of 2023 after our organization called for cruelty charges to be pressed. Charges are currently pending

Jake Kruse, K & E Kennels. Salem, Iowa- Kruse also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their March 8, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Kruse received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 18 states. K & E Kennels 3.8.23

Jeff Wagenbach, Timbercreek Puppies Inc. Burlington, Iowa- At the time of their February 27, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Timbercreek Puppies received 5 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, housing facilities, and veterinary care for dogs. Timbercreek Puppies Inc 2.27.23

Jeremy Steiner, Stonyridge Puppies. Burlington, Iowa- At the time of their January 23, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Steiner received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Jeremy Steiner 1.23.23

Jerry Troyer. Chariton, Iowa- At the time of their February 15, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Troyer received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Jerry Troyer 2.15.23

Kyle Holtkamp. Donnellson, Iowa- At the time of their February 13, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Holtkamp received 5 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, compatible grouping, and veterinary care for dogs. We have records if this facility selling to pet stores in at least 3 states. Note: Had not been inspected since 2020 prior to this inspection. Kyle Holtkamp 2.13.23

Linda Korver, Stanley Korver, Bethany Korver. Orange City, Iowa- At the time of their February 15, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Korver received 10 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification, records, housing facilities, watering, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. We have records of this facility selling to a Nebraska broker named Crittersville. Linda Korver, Stanley Korver, Bethany Korver 2.15.23

Mark Wehling, North Winds Kennel. Monona, Iowa-At the time of their February 15, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Wehling received 5 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification, housing facilities, exercise for dogs, and veterinary care for dogs. Mark Wehling 2.15.23

Marvin E. Hershberger, Twin Pines Kennel. Bloomfield, Iowa- At the time of their February 21, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Hershberger received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 2 states. Marvin E. Hershberger 2.21.23

Melvin Yoder, Locust Creek Kennel. Seymour, Iowa- At the time of their February 15, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Yoder received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to compatible grouping and veterinary care for dogs. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 6 states. Melvin Yoder 2.15.23

Merlin Yoder, Oak Brook Kennel. Drakesville, Iowa- At the time of their January 9, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Yoder received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. At the time of their January 23, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Yoder received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs (violation affects 20 dogs). We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in Michigan and Texas. Merlin Yoder 1.9.23 Merlin Yoder 1.23.23

Natalie Connally, Kutabays. Pella, Iowa- At the time of their January 5, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Connally received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. At the time of their January 24, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Connally received 7 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities, outdoor housing facilities (21 dogs affected), feeding (13 dogs affected), watering (6 dogs affected), and veterinary care for dogs. Note: Prior to these inspections, had not been inspected since 2020. Has a history of violations in previous years. Natalie Connally 1.5.23 Natalie Connally 1.24.23

Orla Nisley, Rolling Organic Acres. At the time of their February 21, 2023, USDA routine Inspection, Nisley received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and veterinary care for dogs. Orla Nisley 2.21.23

Scott Swanson, S&J Kennel (Site 2). Ollie, Iowa- Swanson also received violations in Quarter 2 and Quarter 4 of 2022. At the time of their February 1, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Swanson received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. At the time of their March 29, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Swanson received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (2 dogs affected by violation), and 3 non-critical violations pertaining to records, housing facilities, and primary enclosures. We have records of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Virginia. Note: Has violations in 2021 as well. Scott Swanson 2.1.23 Scott Swanson 3.29.23

Steve Kruse, Stonehenge Kennel. West Point, Iowa- Kruse has also received violations in Quarters 2, 3, and 4 of 2022. At the time of their March 7, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Kruse received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (17 dogs affected by violation), and 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care. At the time of their March 14, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Kruse received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and veterinary care for dogs. Kruse received a 21-Day suspension for violations received on March 7 and March 14, 2023. Our organization has also called on the country sheriff to press cruelty charges. Kruse sells to pet stores all over the country through brokers in Iowa. Note: Has a history of violations. Steve Kruse 3.7.23.    Steve Kruse 3.14.23  Steve Kruse 21-Day Suspension

Tom Steffensmeier and Carla Steffensmeier, T & C Steffensmeier Kennels. West Point, Iowa- At the time of their March 8, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Steffensmeier received 12 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, housing facilities, primary enclosures, feeding (36 feeders affected), cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 12 states. Tom Steffensmeier & Carla Steffensmeier

Troy Grant and Jody Grant, Critter Haven Exotics. Thornton, Iowa- At the time of their January 18, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Grant received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control (5 dogs affected by this violation).  Troy Grant & Jody Grant 1.18.23

Kansas

Cindy Jensen and Richard Jensen. Neodesha, Kansas- Jensen also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their March 14, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Jensen received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to records, housing facilities, and veterinary care for dogs. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 6 states. Cindy Jensen & Richard Jensen 3.14.23

Derek Dougherty. Agra, Kansas- At the time of their February 9, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Dougherty received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 3 states. Derek Dougherty 2.9.23

Jim West, Dry Creek Kennel. Neodesha, Kansas- At the time of their March 14, 2023, USDA routine inspection, West received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and housing facilities. Jim West 3.14.23

Kathy Williamson, Camp Merry Sunshine Dogs. Moline, Kansas- At the time of their January 12, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Williamson received 2 non-critical violations. One violation pertaining to requirements and application where the facility location was moved but requires a new license and cancelation of old license, and the other pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. Kathy Williamson 1.12.23

Mary Moore, D&M Kennel. Uniontown, Kansas- Moore also received violations in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their January 19, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Moore received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in Massachusetts and to the broker JAKS. Mary Moore 1.19.23

Richard Siess, Siess Ranch LLC. Seneca, Kansas- At the time of their March 8, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Siess Ranch received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Siess Ranch LLC 3.8.23

Maryland

Berger Des Longwoods LLC. Queen Anne, Maryland- At the time of their February 9, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Berger Des Longwoods received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to requirements and application, whereas, the facility re-located in September 2022 but did not update the USDA. Berger Des Longwoods LLC 2.9.23

Farmstead’s Puppy Paradise LLC. Clements, Maryland- At the time of their March 16, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Farmstead’s Puppy Paradise received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to primary enclosures. Farmstead’s Puppy Paradise 3.16.23

Michigan

Daniel Hochstetler. Centreville, Michigan- At the time of their March 22, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Hochstetler received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. Daniel Hochstetler 3.22.23

Martin Steury. Camden, Michigan- At the time of their January 30, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Steury received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Martin Steury 1.30.23

Simon Brenneman and Rosie Brenneman, Woodside Kennel. Stanwood, Michigan- At the time of their January 11, 2023 USDA routine inspection, Woodside Kennel received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (3 dogs affected by violation), and 5 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification, records, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. Woodside Kennel received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations on January 11, 2023.  Woodside Kennel 1.11.23   USDA Warning Woodside Kennel

Minnesota

Mike Jouwstra and Tricia Jouwstra, Jouwstra Kennels. Edgerton, Minnesota- At the time of their February 15, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Jouwstra received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to primary enclosures. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 2 states and to the broker Fulton Enterprises. Mike Jouwstra & Tricia Jouwstra 2.15.23

Rebecca Stille and Tim Stille, Arias Friends. Faribault, Minnesota- At the time of their February 7, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Stille received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control, and veterinary care for dogs.Rebecca Stille & Tim Stille 2.7.23

Missouri

Bennie Redmond, Krak R Jax Kennel. Farmington, Missouri- At the time of their February 6, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Redmond received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to records and contingency planning. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in Florida. Bennie Redmond 2.6.23

Bobbie Lyell and Charleen Lyell, Royal Heritage Kennel LLC AKA Oakwood Farms AKA Cutie Pie Puppies. Hartville, Missouri- This facility also received violations in Quarters 3 and 4 of 2022, and received an official warning in Quarter 4 of 2022. At the time of their January 12, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Royal Heritage Kennel received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. On March 16, 2023, Royal Heritage Kennel received another non-critical violation for an attempted inspection. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 3 states.   Royal Heritage Kennel 1.12.23  Royal Heritage Kennel 3.16.23

Carol Stoner, Stoner’s Fun Loving Pets. Wheatland, Missouri- Stoner received an Official USDA Warning stemming from a direct violation they received on October 27, 2022, and has since canceled their USDA license. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in Connecticut and the broker Pinnacle Pet. USDA Warning Carol Stoner

Charlene Green, Timberline Paws. Grant City, Missouri- Green also received violations in Quarter 4 of 2022. At the time of their February 21, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Green received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities (2 dogs affected) and outdoor housing facilities (46 dogs affected by violation). Charlene Green 2.21.23

Charles McGinnis and Debbi McGinnis, Monarchs Kennel. Bolivar, Missouri- At the time of their January 17, 2023, USDA routine inspection, McGinnis received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. McGinnis received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations they received on January 17, 2023. Charles McGinnis & Debbi McGinnis 1.17.23 USDA Warning Charles McGinnis & Debbi McGinnis

Cody Zimmerman. Seymour, Missouri- At the time of their March 17, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Zimmerman received 1 direct violation pertaining to watering (4 dogs and 8 puppies affected by violation). Cody Zimmerman 3.17.23

Donna Taber, Jet Kennels. Wasola, Missouri- At the time of their January 26, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Taber received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and 3 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification, outdoor housing, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Taber received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations received on January 26, 2023. Donna Taber 1.26.23  USDA Warning Donna Taber

Janice Eminger, C&J’s Happy Tails. Joplin, Missouri-Eminger received an Official USDA Warning for operating as a dealer between March 4, 2019, and May 10, 2021, without having a license to do so. USDA Warning Janice Eminger

Joann Cash. Nevada, Missouri- At the time of their March 22, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Cash received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities (8 dogs affected by violation). Joann Cash 3.22.23

Joyce Walters, Select Pets. Anderson, Missouri- At the time of their February 9, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Walters received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. On March 22, 2023, Walters received another non-critical violation pertaining to an attempted inspection. We have records of this facility selling to a pet store in New Jersey. Joyce Walters 2.9.23 Joyce Walters 3.22.23

Marjorie L. Walker-Price, Price’s Pets. Niangue, Missouri- At the time of their January 19, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Walker received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to time and method of identification. Marjorie Walker 1.19.23

Marty Clinton, Twin Springs Kennel LLC. Vanzant, Missouri- Clinton received an Official USDA Warning stemming from a direct violation received on December 14, 2022. USDA Warning Marty Clinton

Mary Ann Smith, Smith’s Kennels. Salem, Missouri-  Smith also received violations in Quarters 2, 3, and 4 of 2022. At the time of their January 18, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Smith received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. On February 17, 2023, Smith received another non-critical violation for an attempted inspection. On March 28, 2023, Smith received another non-critical violation for an attempted inspection. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 7 states.   Mary Ann Smith 1.18.23 Mary Ann Smith 2.17.23 Mary Ann Smith 3.28.23

Mary Feldmann and Tim Feldmann, Raspberry Creek Kennel. At the time of their March 21, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Feldmann received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 3 states. Note: Has a history of violations in previous years. Mary Feldmann & Tim Feldmann 3.21.23

Paul Swartzentruber and Josie Swartzentruber, PJ’s Puppy Nursery. Buffalo, Missouri- Swartzentruber received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations they received on November 21, 2022, and has since canceled their USDA license. USDA Warning Paul Swartzentruber & Josie Swartzentruber

Randy Swartzentruber. Half Way, Missouri- At the time of their March 6, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Swartzentruber received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (2 dogs affected by violation). Randy Swartzentruber 3.6.23

Tamara Brower, WinDog Kennels. Pomona, Missouri- At the time of their February 6, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Brower received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control (9 areas affected by violation). We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in New York and North Carolina.  Tamara Brower 2.6.23

Teresa Rauch, Ratepa Kennels. Bolivar, Missouri- At the time of their March 23, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Rauch received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, primary enclosures, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. We have records of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Connecticut. Teresa Rauch 3.23.23

Tom Nelson, Oak Ridge Pet. Macon, Missouri- Nelson also received a violation in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their January 21, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Nelson received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. We have records of this facility selling to at least 1 pet store in Missouri. Note: Has a history of violations in previous years. Tom Nelson 2.21.23

Nevada

Boris Petkov, Desert Rats Kennel. Las Vegas, Nevada- At the time of their February 1, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Petkov received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning and housing facilities. Boris Petkov 2.1.23

Puppy Central LLC. Las Vegas, Nevada- At the time of their January 9, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Puppy Central received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning and exercise for dogs. Puppy Central LLC 1.9.23

New York

Daniel Yoder and Sadie Yoder. Jasper, New York- Yoder also received violations in Quarter 3 of 2022, including 1 critical violation. At the time of their February 7, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Yoder received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Daniel Yoder & Sadie Yoder 2.7.23

Harvey E. Miller. Greenwood, New York- At the time of their February 7, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Miller received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning and veterinary care for dogs. Note: Has a history of violations in previous years. Harvey E. Miller 2.7.23

Jonas Miller and Clara Miller. Fillmore, New York- At the time of their February 7, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Miller received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (3 dogs affected by violation), and records. Note: Has violations in 2021. Jonas Miller & Clara Miller 2.7.23

Levi Hershberger. Woodhull, New York- At the time of their March 31, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Hershberger received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning and exercise for dogs. Note: Has history of violations under canceled license. Levi Hershberger 3.31.23

Rainbow Creek Kennels. South Butler, New York- This facility also has violations in Quarter 4 of 2022. At the time of their January 10, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Rainbow Creek Kennels received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. Rainbow Creek Kennels 1.10.23

Ohio

Ammon Burkholder, AB Kennel. Shiloh, Ohio- At the time of their February 14, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Burkholder received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities, exercise for dogs, and veterinary care for dogs. Ammon Burkholder 2.14.23

Andy C. Raber, Hill Top Kennel. Baltic, Ohio- At the time of their March 29, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Raber received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities (30 dogs affected by violation) and veterinary care for dogs. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least two states and to the broker Preferred Canines. Andy C. Raber 3.29.23

Cindy Yoder. Baltic, Ohio- At the time of their January 11, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Yoder received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (4 dogs affected by violation). Cindy Yoder 1.11.23

Dennis L. Yoder, Sunshine Ridge Puppies. Alexandria, Ohio- At the time of their January 11, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Sunshine Ridge Puppies received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to primary enclosures. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in Connecticut and to Nichols Pups. Sunshine Ridge Puppies 1.11.23

Duane Miller. Dundee, Ohio- At the time of their January 17, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Miller received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to veterinary care for dogs (4 dogs affected by violation). Duane Miller 1.17.23

Elam Wickey and Esther Wickey, Rose Wood Kennel. Willshire, Ohio- At the time of their January 26, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Wickey received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to requirements and application, whereas, the facility re-located but did not update the USDA. Elam Wickey & Esther Wickey 1.26.23

Gertie J. Miller. Baltic, Ohio- At the time of their January 24, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Miller received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to primary enclosures. Gertie Miller 2.14.23

Happy Tail Pets LLC. Millersburg, Ohio- This facility also received violations in Quarter 3 of 2022. At the time of their February 14, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Happy Tail Pets received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and housing facilities. Happy Tail Pets LLC 2.14.23

Henry E. Wengerd. Dundee, Ohio- Wengerd also received violations in Quarters 3 and 4 of 2022. At the time of their February 16, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Wengerd received 1 direct violation pertaining to housing facilities (4 dogs affected by violation), and 5 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities, feeding, watering, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. Henry E. Wengerd 2.16.23

Joseph D. Miller, Hidden Hollow Kennel. Apple Creek, Ohio- At the time of their January 18, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Miller received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs (2 dogs affected by this violation). Joseph Miller 1.18.23

Leroy E. Yoder, Mohawk Kennels. Walhonding, Ohio- At the time of their March 27, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Yoder received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities (19 dogs affected by violations). Leroy E. Yoder 3.27.23

Marion Keim. Millerburg, Ohio- At the time of their February 6, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Keim received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Marion Keim 2.6.23

Marion Miller. Coshocton, Ohio- At the time of their February 7, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Miller received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities (30 dogs affected by violation). Marion Miller 2.7.23

Marvin Coblentz. Sugarcreek, Ohio- At the time of their March 30, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Coblentz received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Marvin Coblentz 3.30.23

Marvin Yoder, Willow Lot Kennels. Millersburg, Ohio-  Yoder also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their March 2, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Yoder received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Marvin Yoder 3.2.23

Neva Schlabach, Schlabach Blacksmith. Sugarcreek, Ohio- At the time of their February 8, 2023, USDA inspection, Schlabach received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to records and housing facilities (45 dogs affected by this violation). Neva Schlabach 2.8.23

Vernon D. Raber. Dundee, Ohio- At the time of their March 31, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Raber received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities (18 dogs affected by violations). Vernon D. Raber 3.31.23

Oklahoma

Rhonda Frederick, Luvable Puppies. Okmulgee, Oklahoma- Frederick also received violations in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their February 21, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Frederick received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. We have records of this facility selling to a pet store in Texas.  Rhonda Frederick 2.21.23

Save 4 Paws Rescue, Inc. At the time of their March 29, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Save 4 Paws Rescue received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, records, and primary enclosures. Save 4 Paws Rescue Inc 3.29.23

Pennsylvania

Jeff Wagner, Stonebridge Puppies. Lititz, Pennsylvania- At the time of their January 3, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Wagner received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Jeff Wagner 1.3.23

John Jay Lapp, Peaceful Acres Puppies LLC. Millerstown, Pennsylvania- This facility also received a violation in Quarter 3 of 2022. At the time of their March 21, 2023,  USDA routine inspection, Peaceful Acres Puppies received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to records, primary enclosures, and veterinary care for dogs. Peaceful Acres Puppies LLC 3.21.23

South Carolina 

Wild Wild Westies. Abbeville, South Carolina- At the time of their January 12, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Wild Wild Westies received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning, outdoor housing facilities, and veterinary care for dogs. Wild Wild Westies

Texas 

Patricia Bingham. Alvin, Texas- Bingham also received 13 violations (including 2 direct) in Quarter 4 of 2022. At the time of their January 4, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Bingham received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and 6 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, records, housing facilities, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. 

On January 10, 2023, Bingham received 1 non-critical violation for an attempted inspection. On January 27, 2023, Bingham received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, this violation affected 7 cats and 2 kittens. They also received 4 non-critical violations during this inspection for requirements and application, records, contingency planning, and housing facilities. 

On February 16, 2023, Bingham received another direct violation for attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, this violation affected 5 cats and 2 kittens. They also received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. On March 3, 2023, Bingham received another direct violation for attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, 8 cats and 3 kittens were affected by this violation. They also received 6 non-critical violations pertaining to records, contingency planning, housing facilities, and employees (only 2 employees to care for 58 cats plus 2 enclosures of newborn leopards). 

On March 8, 2023, during a focused inspection, Bingham received another direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, this violation affected 13 cats and 6 kittens. 

Bingham received a Notice of Confiscation on March 8, 2023, to notify them that 19 of their animals were being confiscated for failure to provide adequate and necessary care to the animals.  Our organization publicly called for the sheriff to investigate this facility for potential animal cruelty charges. Patricia Bingham 1.4.23 Patricia Bingham 1.10.23 Patricia Bingham 1.27.23 Patricia Bingham 2.16.23 Patricia Bingham 3.3.23 Patricia Bingham 3.8.23 Notice of Confiscation Patricia Bingham

Virginia

Andrey Mikirtichev and Elena Mikirtichev. North Chesterfield, Virginia- This facility has received violations in all four Quarters of 2022 totaling 9 violations. At the time of their March 16, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Mikirtichev received 2 direct violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and primary enclosures, 16 cats were affected by these violations. 

They also received 8 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification, access and inspection of records and property, housing facilities, outdoor housing facilities, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control.

On March 20, 2023, Mikirtichev received 2 direct violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. These violations affected the same dog.  Andrey Mikirticheva & Elena Mikirticheva 3.16.23 Andrey Mikirticheva & Elena Mikirticheva 3.20.23

RMRS Manufacturing & Distributing Inc AKA Pet & Aquatic Warehouse. Lynchburg. Virginia- This facility also received violations in Quarter 4 of 2022. At the time of their January 25, 2023, USDA routine inspection, RMRS received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to primary enclosures (5 puppies affected by violation). RMRS Manufacturing & Distributing Inc 1.25.23

Wisconsin

Abner Allgyer. Darlington, Wisconsin- At the time of their February 14, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, Allgyer received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. On March 8, 2023, during a routine inspection, Allgyer received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to form of official tag, watering (3 enclosures affected by violation), and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least three states.  Note: The facility had not been inspected since 2020. Abner Allgyer 2.14.23 Abner Allgyer 3.8.23

Alexander Popovich and Jennifer Popovich, Oh Puppy Love. Lena, Wisconsin- At the time of their March 27, 2023, USDA re-license inspection, Oh Puppy Love received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning, exercise for dogs, and veterinary care for dogs. Oh Puppy Love 3.27.23

Freeman Kurtz, D & F Kennel LLC AKA Hillside Kennel. Augusta, Wisconsin- At the time of their January 4, 2023, USDA routine inspection, D & F Kennel received 1 non-critical violation for shipping 2 puppies underage. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 2 states. D & F Kennel LLC 1.4.23

Harley E. Bontrager. Cambria, Wisconsin- Bontrager also received a violation in Quarter 3 of 2022. At the time of their January 30, 2023, USDA inspection, Bontrager received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Harley E. Bontrager 1.30.23

Jonas Hershberger. Gays Mills, Wisconsin- At the time of their January 10, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Hershberger received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. We have records of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Indiana. Jonas Hershberger 1.10.23

Junior Yutzy. Hillsboro, Wisconsin- Yutzy also received violations in Quarters 2, 3, and 4 of 2022, totaling 14 violations. At the time of their March 1, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Yutzy received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control.  Junior Yutzy 3.1.23

Leroy Fhlug, Wisconsin Puppy Patch. Fhlug received an Official USDA Warning for operating as a dealer without a valid license. USDA Warning Leroy Fhlug

Neil Miller. Viroqud, Wisconsin- At the time of their March 29, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Miller received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to primary enclosures and Veterinary care for dogs. Neil Miller 3.29.23

Reuben E. Graber, True Dream Pawz. Hillsboro, Wisconsin- At the time of their February 13, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Graber received 1 critical violation pertaining to sheltered housing facilities (26 puppies affected by violation) and 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Note: Previous to inspection, had not been inspected since 2020. Reuben E. Graber 2.13.23

Steven Sensenig, Cannon Country Canines. Lancaster, Wisconsin- At the time of their February 24, 2023, USDA routine inspection, Sensenig received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Steven Sensenig 2.24.23

The Family Patch Inc AKA Puppy Prints. Athens, Wisconsin- At the time of their March 22, 2023, USDA attempted inspection, The Family Patch received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. On March 27, 2023, during a routine inspection, The Family Patch received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. The Family Patch 3.22.23 The Family Patch 3.27.23

You can view our 2022 Quarterly Violation Reports here

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Cats Seized from USDA licensed Cat Breeder in Texas

March 2023

Bailing Out Benji has formally requested that the Brazoria County Sheriff investigate USDA licensee Patricia Bingham for possible animal cruelty and neglect based on Texas’ animal cruelty laws. 

A letter from the USDA dated March 8th, 2023 shows that there was a confiscation of 19 cats from the property belonging to Patricia Bingham (74-A-1531) of Alvin, Texas because of “failure to provide the adequate and necessary care to the animals”. 

This confiscation comes after Bingham has received 4 Direct Violations and 18 Non-Critical Violations in the first three months of 2023 and 2 Direct Violations and 11 Non-Critical Violations in the last month of 2022. 

Bingham’s license was also temporarily suspended for 21 days in December of 2022.

The animals seized include:

-A kitten (microchip # 985141005227690))

-An un-weaned kitten which is with its mother and 4 more kittens (985141004666850 – Female Bengal cat “Egypt”, 985141005790943 – Female kitten, 985141005790883 – male kitten, 985141005230223 – male kitten, 985141005794054 – male kitten, 985141004662109 – male kitten) -An adult female Leopard cat (microchip #985141005229824)

-Two male Leopard cats (microchip #: 98112011806778 and 985112011806600)

-One male Leopard cat, one female Bengal/Leopard cat hybrid, and one female Bengal in the cattery/garage – Cage #10 (046868541 – Male leopard cat “Roman”, 985141004667596 – Female Bengal cat “Izzy”, 985141003970662 – Female Bengal cat “Sierra”)

-A female Bengal cat (microchip #: 985112011806548), also housed in the cattery/garage

– Female leopard cat 985112011806473 housed in the cattery/garage

-Female Bengal cat “Lacy” 985141005229824 housed in the cattery/garage -Female Bengal cat “Sofie” 985112010103417 housed in the cattery/garage -Female Bengal cat “Pebbles” 991001004713780 housed in the cattery/garage -Female Bengal cat “Cheyanne” 985141003971325 housed in the cattery/garage

At the end of 2022, it was noted that Bingham had 53 cats on their property. 

At this time, Bingham still holds an active USDA license. 

While all of us at Bailing Out Benji are extremely grateful to the USDA for confiscating these animals, we are concerned about where the animals went after the seizure. We hope that they were taken to a reputable shelter or rescue for proper veterinary care but we have not yet been able to confirm their whereabouts.

In the past, the USDA has allowed dogs from at least one horrific puppy mill to be transferred to another problematic facility, who ended up euthanizing 199 dogs in one day. 

We will continue monitoring this situation and will be looking for answers as to where the seized animals wound up. 

Please make sure you sign up to receive our news and action alerts for your community. You can also make a one-time or monthly donation to help our nonprofit continue fighting the cruel puppy and kitten mill industry across the country. 

You can read Bingham’s inspection reports and the confiscation letter here: Patricia Bingham USDA

 

Omaha Pet Store Imports Sick Puppies

This research was done by Bailing Out Benji and must be cited as such. 

March 2023

Sick puppies in pet stores are a sad reality that many potential pet owners are not aware of. Pet stores are often the go-to place for people looking to adopt a new furry friend because they are opportunistic and feed into impulse purchases- but they can also be the source of heartbreak for the unsuspecting buyer.

Based on records that Bailing Out Benji obtained from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture for 2022, it seems that at least one pet store in Omaha is knowingly importing and reselling puppies with genetic health issues. 

Our research team forensically analyzed 79 shipping records from out-of-state breeding facilities selling to Tully’s Kennels located at 7777 D St, in Omaha, Nebraska. Of those 79 shipping records, 26 of them had notes reflecting genetic illnesses or documented puppies under 8 weeks old that were being transported. These health issues were reported on the Certificates of Veterinary Inspection, which were collected before the puppies left their breeding facility. 

These documented illnesses/ailments included:

      • 7 puppies with umbilical hernias
      • 1 puppy with an inguinal hernia
      • 6 puppies with luxating patellas
      • 4 puppies with various skin issues
      • 1 puppy was noted as having a ‘’gallop rhythm’ in their heart. 

*It is important to note that the vast majority of the CVIs we obtain make no note of the health issues of puppies or the medications given to them while they are at the breeding facility. These health issues also do not include animals who may have been diagnosed with illnesses after they were sold. 

A few examples of the records we are referring to can be found below. 

Only three breeding facilities produced these 19 puppies that were noted as having health issues. 

Puppy mills are a major contributor to the problem of sick puppies in pet stores. These are large-scale commercial breeding facilities that prioritize profit over the well-being of the animals they produce. Puppy mills often keep dogs in cramped, unsanitary conditions, with little to no access to proper food, water, or veterinary care. As a result, the puppies born in these mills are often sick, malnourished, and prone to a host of health problems. To learn more about puppy mills, click here

Pet stores that source their puppies from puppy mills are complicit in the perpetuation of this cruel industry. By purchasing puppies from these mills, pet stores provide a market for breeders who prioritize profit over animal welfare. And when these sick puppies are sold to unsuspecting buyers, it only perpetuates the cycle of abuse. To view the facilities that supply Nebraska pet stores, click here

This research was done by Bailing Out Benji and must be cited as such. 

March 2023

Henry Sommers of Happy Puppys Charged with Animal Neglect

For immediate release: 

On January 31st, 2023 , Henry Sommers, dog breeder and owner of Happy Puppys, in Cincinnati, Iowa was arrested at the Appanoose County Sheriff’s Office and charged with two counts of Animal Neglect with Serious Injury (Aggravated Misdemeanors); three counts of Animal Neglect with Injury (Serious Misdemeanors); and two counts of Animal Neglect without Injury (Simple Misdemeanors).

This comes after Bailing Out Benji, an Iowa based nonprofit organization, filed a complaint with the Appanoose County Sheriff and County Attorney on January 9th, 2023. Bailing Out Benji urged the department to press charges and immediately seize the animals in Sommers’ care due to his ongoing violations with the USDA. Many of the violations appeared to be in clear violation of Iowa’s animal cruelty code 717B. 

You can view Sommers’ recent USDA violations, violations from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and fine from the USDA below. 

Happy Puppys USDA Violations

Happy Puppys IDALS inspections 2022

Sommers USDA Penalty 10.14.2022

On January 11th, 2023, an investigation into Sommers was opened by the Appanoose County Sheriff. By Friday, January 13th, 2023 the 4 remaining dogs at the Sommer’s property were seized and taken to a local shelter for evaluation.

According to the Sheriff’s Office:

“During the investigation, officials observed two adult Yorkshire dogs and two Yorkshire puppies that were living in an unhealthy environment.

All four dogs were relinquished to a local animal shelter and later taken to an area Humane Society. The dogs were further examined by a licensed Veterinarian who determined that the animals were being neglected, and as a result of the neglect, the animals sustained injuries in violation of Iowa Code 717B. 

During the investigation, officials learned that Sommers had previously relinquished other Yorkshire dogs that had sustained injuries as a result of neglect that required surgical procedures.” 

 

 

You can read the full statement from the sheriff’s office here. 

Sommers Press Release

Bailing Out Benji is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that is dedicated to ending puppy mill cruelty through research, education and advocacy. Our team provides transparency into puppy mills, puppy brokers and puppy stores by forensically auditing government health records and inspection records and making that information public. Our research is used from classrooms to policy rooms across the country in order to make necessary changes in the lives of countless animals protect consumers against this predatory industry

2022 USDA Violations- Quarter 4

Bailing Out Benji is a national nonprofit organization that exists to provide transparency into the puppy mill industry. We forensically audit government health records and inspection reports in order to connect puppy mills and commercial dog breeders to the various outlets in which they sell. We pay for many of these documents and then make them available for free on our website and to the public in order to provide the transparency that the public deserves before buying a puppy. 

To see our pet store and online broker research, click here.

According to the USDA: An inspection report documents an inspector’s observations and professional assessments of compliance at facilities regulated under the AWA. Below we have compiled a list of all of the USDA dog breeders and brokers that have had violations in Quarter 4 of 2022.

This time period is from October 1st, 2022 to December 31st, 2022.

Editors note: USDA inspectors have 5 days to give a copy of their inspection to the licensee and 30 days to publish their reports online. There may be additional facilities we add to this list once more inspection reports are added to the database.

Omitted from these violations are missed inspections. The list below also only reflects dog and cat breeders and brokers (licenses A and B).

This list of violations below was obtained from the USDA APHIS search engine. Any pet store connections were obtained from various state departments of agriculture. 

You can view our previous 2022 violation reporters here: 

2022 Quarter 3

2022 Quarter 2

2022 Quarter 1

This time period is from October 1st, 2022 to December 31st, 2022.

Arkansas

Elisa Brandvik. Ozark, Arkansas- Brandvik also received violations and an Official USDA Warning in Quarter 3 of 2022. At the time of their November 7, 2022, USDA routine inspection Brandvik received 2 direct violations and 3 non-critical. The direct violations pertain to compatible grouping and cleaning sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. The non-critical violations pertain to housing facilities and outdoor housing facilities. Elisa Brandvik 11.7.22

Frank Foster. Hindsville, Arkansas- At the time of their October 27, 2022, USDA routine inspection Foster received 7 non-critical violations pertaining to indoor housing facilities, primary enclosures, exercise for dogs, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling puppies to at least one pet store in Connecticut. Frank Foster 10.27.22

Gary Brown and Carolyn Brown. Van Buren, Arkansas- At the time of their December 1, 2022, USDA routine inspection Brown received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and 4 non-critical violations pertaining to primary enclosures, veterinary care for dogs, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control.  Note: Has violations in 2021. Gary Brown & Carolyn Brown 12.1.22

Golden Meadows Farm. Newhope, Arkansas- At the time of their December 21, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Golden Meadows Farm received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Golden Meadows Farm 12.21.22

Judy Willis. Jasper, Arkansas- At the time of their November 29, 2022, USDA routine inspection Willis received 5 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, housing facilities, outdoor housing facilities, watering, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in New York. Judy Willis 11.29.22

Monica Beery, Benjamin Beery, and Kimberly Beery. Harrison, Arkansas- At the time of their November 3, 2022, USDA routine inspection Beery received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Note: Has multiple violations in 2021 during separate inspections, and violations in 2019 and 2017. Monica Beery, Benjamin Beery, & Kimberly Beery 11.3.22

Colorado

Patricia Shellabarger, Rio Alto Kennels. Moffat, Colorado- At the time of their October 4, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Shellabarger received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Note: Has violations in 2014 and every year until 2018. Patricia Shellabarger 10.4.22

Illinois

Larry Hochstetler, Shady View Puppies. Arthur, Illinois- At the time of their December 14, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Hochstetler received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in North Carolina. Larry Hochstetler 12.14.22

Indiana

Ben H Graber. Odon, Indiana- At the time of their October 18, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Graber received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Ben Graber 10.18.22

Daniel K Graber & Anna Mae Graber. Odon, Indiana- At the time of their October 19, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Graber received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Connecticut and the broker JAKS. Daniel K. Graber & Anna Mae Graber 10.19.22

Daniel Wingard, Valleyhill Pups. Bristol, Indiana- Wingard received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations they received on August 30, 2022. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Pennsylvania. USDA Warning Daniel Wingard

David Lee Lapp. Hagerstown, Indiana- At the time of their October 19, 2022, USDA attempted inspection, Lapp received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. At the time of their November 22, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Lapp received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. David Lee Lapp 10.19.22 David Lee Lapp 11.22.22

Jacob X Schwartz Jr. Geneva, Indiana- At the time of their November 2, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Schwartz received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Michigan. Jacob X. Schwartz Jr 11.2.22

James A Knepp. Loogootee, Indiana- At the time of their October 3, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Knepp received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to contingency planning. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 3 states. James A. Knepp 10.3.22

Mark Lynch, LBL Kennels. Reelsville, Indiana- At the time of their October 17, 2022, USDA-focused inspection Lynch received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (a repeat violation for Lynch), and primary enclosures. Note: Has violations in 2021. Mark Lynch 10.17.22

Uncle Bill’s Pet Center AKA Pet Centers of Indiana. Indianapolis, Indiana- At the time of their November 7, 2022 ‘new site’ inspection, Pet Centers received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to Veterinary care for dogs.Uncle Bill’s Pet Center 11.7.2022

William Knepp. Washington, Indiana- At the time of their October 18, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Knepp received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to attending the veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, housing facilities, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. William Knepp 10.18.22

Iowa

Daniel Kauffman, Dee Kay Bulldogs. Bloomfield, Iowa- At the time of their October 18, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Kauffman received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 5 states. Note: Cancelled first license (42-A-1572) under which his last inspection was in 2019 and was not inspected again until under a new license (42-A-1690) in 2022. Daniel Kauffman 10.18.22

Eli Schrock, Hillview Kennels. Drakesville, Iowa- At the time of their November 1, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Schrock received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 8 states. Eli Schrock 11.1.22

Henry Detweiler. Fairbank, Iowa- At the time of their November 22, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Detweiler received 6 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, records, and veterinary care for dogs. Henry Detweiler 11.22.22

Henry Sommers, Happy Puppys. Cincinnati, Iowa- Sommers also received violations in Quarters 1, 2, and 3 of 2022. At the time of their November 1, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Sommers received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Henry Sommers received a citation and notification of penalty on December 22, 2022, for violations procured during the time period between 2019 and 2022, receiving a penalty of $12,600. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in at least one state. Henry Sommers 11.1.22 USDA Settlement Agreement Henry Sommers

Jodie Manning, Blue Bird Ranch. Monona, Iowa- At the time of their November 1, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Manning received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Connecticut and to the broker JAKS. Note: This is a new licensee. They had violations in Quarter 1 of 2022 under a now-cancelled license (42-A-0645) under Julie Halverson’s name. Jodie Manning 11.1.22

Loren Yoder. Riverside, Iowa- Yoder received violations in Quarters 1, 2, and 3 of 2022. Yoder received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations they received on September 12, 2022 and has since cancelled their USDA license.  USDA Warning Loren Yoder

Scott Swanson, S & J Kennel (Site 2). Ollie, Iowa- Swanson also received violations at their site 2 in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their November 3, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Swanson received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Virginia. Note: Has violations in 2021. Scott Swanson 11.3.22

Stephen Schrock, Shady Lawn Kennel LLC. Bloomfield, Iowa- At the time of their October 20, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Shady Lawn Kennel received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to primary enclosures. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 5 states. Shady Lawn Kennels LLC 10.20.22

Steve Kruse, Stonehenge Kennel. West Point, Iowa- Kruse also received violations in Quarters 1, 2, and 3 of 2022. At the time of their December 13, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Kruse received 1 repeat direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care (8 dogs affected). Kruse also received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities, primary enclosures, feeding, and veterinary care for dogs. . Note: Has violations in 2021, 2020, and 2019. Steve Kruse 12.13.22

Kansas

Judy Koehn, Bow-Wow Mound. Burns, Kansas- At the time of their October 4, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Koehn received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification and records. We have records of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 3 states. Judy Koehn 10.4.22

Melissa Morris. Olathe, Kansas- At the time of their December 1, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Morris received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Melissa Morris 12.1.22

Roger Shilling, Prairie Ridge Kennel. Westphalia, Kansas- At the time of their November 29, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Shilling received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. Roger Shilling 11.29.22

Michigan 

Nathan Steury. Camden, Michigan- Steury has also received violations in Quarters 1, 2, and 3 of 2022. At the time of their October 24, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Steury received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to minimum age requirements. Note: Has violations in 2021 and 2020. This facility has recently canceled their USDA license and operates under a new name “Peaceful Paws Puppies, LLC”. Nathan Steury 10.24.22

Mary Margarets Pups LLC, Laura Ann Gordon.  Ada, Michigan- At the time of their December 20, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Mary Margarets Pups received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to records and watering. Mary Margarets Pups LLC 12.20.22



Missouri 

Betty Lawson, Fly’N Goose Ranch. Mountain Grove, Missouri- At the time of their November 2, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Lawson received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to outdoor housing facilities. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 3 states. Betty Lawson 11.2.22

Beverly Hargis, Hargis’ Sunshine Kennels. Hallsville, Missouri- At the time of their October 31, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Hargis received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Note: Has violations in 2021. Beverly Hargis 10.31.22

Bobbie Lyell and Charleen Lyell Royal Heritage Kennel LLC AKA Cutie Pie Puppies AKA Oakwood Farms. Hartville, Missouri- This facility also received violations in Quarter 3 of 2022. At the time of their November 28, 2022, USDA attempted inspection, Royal Heritage Kennel received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. This facility received an Official USDA Warning October 19, 2022, due to a violation received on August 8, 2022. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 2 states. Royal Heritage Kennel 11.28.22 USDA Warning Royal Heritage Kennel

Carolyn Lansdown, TLC Kennels. Hartville, Missouri- Lansdown also received violations in Quarter 3 of 2022. At the time of their October 20, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Lansdown received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Carolyn Lansdown 10.20.22

Carol Stoner, Stoner’s Fun Loving Pets. Wheatland, Missouri- At the time of their October 27, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Stoner received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. We have record of this pet store selling to at least one pet store in Connecticut and to the broker Pinnacle Pet. Carol Stoner 10.27.22

Charlene Green, Timberline Paws. Grant City, Missouri- At the time of their November 15, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Green received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to records, housing facilities, outdoor housing facilities, and primary enclosures. Charlene Green 11.15.22

Chester Williams and Debbie Williams, Loveable Puppies. Greentop, Missouri- At the time of their November 28, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Williams received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 4 states and to the broker JAKS. Debbie Williams & Chester Williams 11.28.22

Daniel Kurtz. Jamesport, Missouri- At the time of their December 14, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Kurtz received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities. Daniel Kurtz 12.14.22

Deborah Earnest AKA Debbie Earnest, Debco. Stover, Missouri- Debco also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their November 17, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Debco received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to procurement of dogs, cats, and other animals, indoor housing facilities, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Debco 11.17.22

Edna’s S.S. Kennel, Elva Nolt and Edna Nolt. Barnett, Missouri- At the time of their November 16, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Nolt received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities and veterinary care for dogs. Elva M. Nolt & Edna Z. Nolt 11.16.22

Harold Martin, Big Creek Kennel AKA Bridge Creek Kennel. Edina, Missouri-  At the time of their December 6, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Martin received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to outdoor housing facilities.Harold Martin 12.6.22

Marilyn Byerley, MB Kennel. Mountain Grove, Missouri- MB Kennel also received violations in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their November 14, 2022, USDA routine inspection, MB Kennel received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification and indoor housing facilities. MB Kennel 11.14.22

Marty Clinton. Vanzant, Missouri- At the time of their December 14, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Clinton received 1 direct and 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate care and housing facilities. Marty Clinton 12.14.2022

Mary Smith, Smiths Kennels. Salem, Missouri- Smith also received violations in Quarters 2 and 3 of 2022. At the time of their November 2, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Smith received 2 repeat non-critical violations pertaining to watering and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in at least 6 states. Mary A. Smith 11.2.22

Melvin Hershberger. Lamar, Missouri- At the time of their December 15, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Hershberger received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Melvin Hershberger 12.15.22

Noah J Miller. Keytesville, Missouri- At the time of their November 14, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Miller received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to outdoor housing facilities and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in New Hampshire. Noah J. Miller 11.14.22

Paul Swartzentruber and Josie Swartzentruber, PJ’s Puppy Nursery. Buffalo, Missouri- At the time of their November 21, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Swartzentruber received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs.  Paul Swartzentruber & Josie Swartzentruber 11.21.22

Nebraska

Randy Schweitzer, Route 6 Kennels. Milford, Nebraska- At the time of their November 18, 2022, USDA inspection, Schweitzer refused to allow the inspector to take photos during the inspection. This refusal caused the inspection to stop and resulted in a critical violation. This same scenario happened in Quarter 2 of 2022. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store and through broker Becky Busboom.  Randy Schweitzer 11.18.2022

New Mexico

Thomas Emard. La Plata, New Mexico- At the time of their November 3, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Emard received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification and records. Thomas Emard 11.3.22

New York

Esle Yoder. Fort Plain, New York- At the time of their October 4, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Yoder received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Esle Yoder 10.4.22

Happy Teddy. Rochester, New York- At the time of their November 29, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Happy Teddy received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Happy Teddy 11.29.22

Rainbow Creek Kennels. South Butler, New York- At the time of their October 5, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Rainbow Creek Kennels received 5 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, contingency planning, primary enclosures, watering, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Note: Has a history of violations dating back from 2022 to 2014. Rainbow Creek Kennels 10.5.22

Sadie Yoder and Daniel Yoder. Jasper, New York- Yoder received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations they received in Quarter 3 on August 19, 2022. USDA Warning Sadie & Daniel Yoder

Yost Miller, Green Lane Solutions. Whitesville, New York- At the time of their November 9, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Green Lane Solutions received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to exercise for dogs. Note: Has violations in 2021 and 2019. Green Lane Solutions 11.9.22

Ohio

Eli Yoder, Meadow Brook Kennel. Baltic, Ohio- At the time of their November 17, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Yoder received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to records and housing facilities. Note: Has violations in 2021 and 2020. Eli Yoder 11.17.22

David R. Yoder, Waterfall Puppies. Dundee, Ohio- Waterfall Puppies also received violations in Quarter 3 of 2022. At the time of their November 22, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Waterfall Puppies received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to requirements and application, primary enclosures, and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in Connecticut. Note: This inspection is the facility’s 2nd re-license inspection, must be in compliance by the next inspection, or will have to forfeit the license fee and reapply for a license after 6 months. Waterfall Puppies 11.22.22

Puppy Blvd. Dundee, Ohio- At the time of their November 22, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Puppy Blvd received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to requirements and application, housing facilities, exercise for dogs, and veterinary care for dogs.  Puppy Blvd 11.22.22

Oklahoma

Jan Harper. Welch, Oklahoma- At the time of their October 6, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Herper received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. This facility received an Official USDA Warning November 22, 2022, due to a violation received on October 6, 2022. Jan Harper 10.6.22 USDA Warning Jan Harper

Teresa Graham, Graham’s Kennels. Garvin, Oklahoma- Graham received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations they received in Quarter 3 on August 24, 2022. USDA Warning Teresa Graham

Tracy Gordon and Chad Gordon. Kansas, Oklahoma- At the time of their November 2, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Gordon received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to requirements and application. Tracy Gordon & Chad Gordon 11.2.22

Pennsylvania

Lester Martin, L&M Kennel. New Holland, Pennsylvania- At the time of their November 15, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Martin received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Lester S. Martin 11.15.22

Loren Nolt, Evergreen Kennel. East Earl, Pennsylvania- At the time of their October 4, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Nolt received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Massachusetts. Loren Nolt 10.4.22

Matthew Stoltzfus, Millwood Puppies LLC. Gap, Pennsylvania- On November 29, 2022, Millwood Puppies received a violation for an attempted inspection pertaining to access and inspection of records and property; submission of itineraries. At the time of their December 8, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Millwood Puppies received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Millwood Puppies LLC 11.29.22 Millwood Puppies LLC 12.8.22

Michael Fisher. Loysville, Pennsylvania- At the time of their November 14, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Fisher received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Michael Fisher 11.14.22

Stephen Stoltzfoos, Fairmont Acre Kennel. Ephrata, Pennsylvania- At the time of their October 6, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Stoltzfoos received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Stephen Stoltzfoos 10.6.22

South Dakota

Vickie Hines, Lar-Kie Kennel. Woonsocket, South Dakota- Hines also received violations in Quarters 2 and 3 of 2022. At the time of their October 5, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Hines received 2 repeat non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Note: Has a history of violations dating back from 2022 to 2017. Vickie Hines 10.5.22

Tennessee 

David Kiviniemi, Animal City Pet Center. Murfreesboro, Tennessee- At the time of their October 20, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Kiviniemi received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to contingency planning. David Kiviniemi 10.20.22

Texas

Patricia Bingham. Alvin, Texas- At the time of their December 20, 2022 USDA Inspection, Bingham received 2 direct violations and 10 non-critical violations pertaining to: Attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care; records; contingency planning; housing facilities; indoor housing facilities; primary enclosures; watering; cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control; and employees. Bingham also received a 21 day suspended license due to their violations.  Patricia Bingham 12.20.2022  Patricia Bingham USDA suspension

Cowtown Frenchies & Bluebonnet Bulldogs LLC. Granbury, Texas- At the time of their October 6, 2022 USDA inspection, this facility received 1 direct violation, 1 critical violation and 3 non-critical violations pertaining to: interference with APHIS officials,; attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care; housing facilities; and indoor housing facilities. Cowtown Frenchies 10.6.2022

Virginia 

Andrey Mikirtichev and Elena Mikirtichev. North Chesterfield, Virginia- Mikirtichev also received violations in Quarters 1, 2, and 3 of 2022. At the time of their December 8, 2022, USDA attempted inspection, Mikirtichev received 1 repeat non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property. Note: Has violations in 2021. Elena & Andrey Mikirtichev 12.8.22

Madeline Carol Gray, Gray’s Cooper Ridge Kennel. Nickelsville, Virginia- At the time of their December 9, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Gray received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Madeline Carol Gray 12.9.22

Pet World LTD. Newport News, Virginia- Pet World also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their October 6, 2022, USDA routine inspection of site 1, Pet World received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to indoor housing facilities, veterinary care for dogs, and sanitation. At the time of their October 6, 2022, USDA attempted inspection of site 3, Pet World received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to requirement and application and access and inspection of records and property. Pet World LTD 10.6.22 Pet World LTD Attempted Inspection 10.6.22

RMRS Manufacturing & Distributing Inc AKA Pet & Aquatic Warehouse. Lynchburg, Virginia- At the time of their October 5, 2022, USDA routine inspection, RMRS received 1 repeat non-critical violation pertaining to primary enclosures. Note: The last inspection for this facility was in 2014. RMRS Manufacturing & Distributing Inc 10.5.22

West Virginia

Roger Nottingham Sr., The Berner’s Ranch. Gassaway, West Virginia- At the time of their October 25, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Nottingham received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Roger Nottingham Sr 10.25.22

Wisconsin

Carla Brovont, Paws N Play Kennel. Elroy, Wisconsin- At the time of their November 28, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Brovont received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and primary enclosures. We have record of this facility selling to PuppySpot. Carla Brovont 11.28.22

Christy Borntreger and Eli Borntreger, Shady Valley Kennels. Tomah, Wisconsin- At the time of their December 12, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Borntreger received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. We have record of this facility selling to the broker JAKS. Note: Has violations in 2021, including 1 direct violation. Christy & Eli Borntreger 12.12.22

Christy Graber, Kountry Lane Kennel. Hillsboro, Wisconsin- At the time of their November 2, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Graber received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Minnesota. Christy Graber 11.2.22

Junior Yutzy. Hillsboro, Wisconsin- Yutzy also receive multiple violations in Quarters 2 and 3 of 2022. At the time of their December 7, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Yutzy received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to primary enclosures, veterinary care for dogs, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Junior Yutzy 12.7.22

Miriam Hoover, Farm House Kennel. Stanley, Wisconsin-  Hoover also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their October 26, 2022, USDA routine inspection, Hoover received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Iowa and to the broker JAKS. Miriam Hoover 10.26.22

You can view our previous 2022 violation reporters here: 

2022 Quarter 3

2022 Quarter 2

2022 Quarter 1

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What is a puppy mill?

What is a “puppy mill”?

A “puppy mill” is a breeding facility that puts the profit ahead of the welfare of the dogs (and cats rabbits and other small animals). Think of it as a factory farm for puppies.

The adult animals are bred every heat cycle until their bodies give out. They are forced to live in cramped cages their entire lives, their paws never touching the ground. These parent dogs are not always fed healthy food or clean water and they are very rarely (if ever) seen by a vet for illness or injury. 

A puppy mill can be obvious, or it can be well hidden.

What are the worst states when it comes to puppy mills?

The Midwest has the highest concentration of puppy mills, although there are other mills across the country. The Midwest is commonly referred to as “The Puppy Mill Belt”. Missouri and Iowa are the highest offenders when it comes to the sheer number of mills, but Ohio and Pennsylvania are horrible when it comes to unlicensed mills and violations. Puppy mills operations are easily hidden among agriculture buildings. 

If puppy mills are so bad, why do they exist? 

One of the most common questions we receive is, “Why are puppy mills legal”? The answer, plain and simple, is that the USDA and state agencies allow them to exist. Not every USDA licensed dog breeder runs a horrible operation. But they are all required to follow the same very lax laws the USDA set forth in the Animal Welfare Act. According to the AWA: 

-Cage size: must be 6 inches larger than the size of the dog, on all sides
-Up to 12 dogs can be housed in one cage
-Dogs never have to be let out of their cages. Breeders only need to have an exercise plan
-There is no limit to the number dogs a breeder can have—many have over 1,000
-There is no age limit for breeding dogs. If a dog is able to produce puppies for ten years, that’s how long they could be in the facility.

– The inspections are “risk based”. Meaning if there are no violations, the breeder might not see an inspector for a few years. 

The AWA does NOT cover emotional well-being. 

And there are a 115 inspectors to inspect for every single USDA facility… in the entire United States. That includes breeding facilities, factory farms, zoos, circuses, transport vehicles, testing facilities, labs and more…. 115 people to cover over 12,000 facilities.  Do you think that is enough?
For more information on the AWA, click here. 

Where are puppy mill puppies sold? 

Thousands of puppies are sold from puppy mills each year– and the general public is completely unaware of where they just got their new puppy. The breeder will “meet you half way”, so you don’t have to make the full trip, the breeder will ship the puppy on an airplane to you, or buyer doesn’t even know the purchaser because the transaction was made through a pet store. The BEST way to avoid purchasing a puppy from a puppy mill, is to adopt. But that isn’t always something the public is willing to do. So the next best way to make sure you are not buying from a puppy mill is to check out the parents, see the facility (all of it) and resist temptation from saving a puppy from a place that you deem non-reputable. You are only creating a hole for the breeder to fill with more puppies. 

Pet Store: According to the ASPCA: Breeders who sell puppies to pet stores must hold a USDA dealer license, and many states also require breeders to obtain a license to have a dog-breeding kennel. So the statistic is that 99% of puppies in pet stores are from puppy mills. They come from breeders that have enough dogs to constantly keep the cages full of puppies. And the stores will sell puppies like they would a pair of jeans, to anyone with a credit card. They don’t care where that puppy is going or how it will end up. The fact of the matter is, no reputable breeder would sell through a third party. They would want to know exactly where the puppy is going, and more often than not, they require an application and the puppies are required to come back to them if the family can not care for them any longer. 

Do you have a pet store near you? Click here to see the the paper trail between your local pet store and the puppy mills they buy from. Bailing Out Benji and our volunteers have been doing the research so we can show you exactly where those puppies came from. 

Internet: Fancy websites and Craigslist are a very easy way to sell a lot of puppies and keep people off of the property at the same time. The ASPCA and the HSUS both agree that you should never ever buy a puppy from the internet (alone). You MUST see the property where the puppies are born and raised. Anyone can design a fancy website, but you should look for these red flags. 

– If the breeder has several breeds of dogs available. 

– If they ship puppies to you

– If they offer to meet offsite. 

– If they are selling their puppies on CraigsList

– If they won’t allow you to see their property

Newspapers: Classified Ads are way that puppy mills get rid of their puppies. You would have no way of knowing what kind of breeding facility they run, because they ad is only a few sentences long. 

Dog Auctions: Dog Auctions are horrible events in which breeding dogs and puppies are sold to the highest bidder. The dogs are very rarely in good condition. The breeders selling the dogs may be going out of business, they could be getting rid of a certain breed, or they could be getting rid of the dogs that are too old. For an inside look on an auction, click here

Don’t the puppies deserve homes too? What happens to them if they don’t sell? 


This is another one of the most common questions that we are asked. The puppies always sell, because there is always someone that doesn’t know about the pet store/puppy mill connection. What will happen, and what has been happening, is that the public is becoming slowly more aware. This means that the puppies are staying longer in the stores, showing that there isn’t a high demand for them. When the puppies sit longer, the store puts them on sale and keeps dropping the price until they are sold. If they aren’t selling quickly, the store will order less for next month and *hopefully* the breeder will see that the demand is dropping and there isn’t a need for as many dogs on their property. But this all starts with YOU. YOU shouldn’t buy that puppy. 

Are there puppy mills near me? 

At Bailing Out Benji, we work tirelessly to educate about the horrors of puppy mills, without sharing the graphic photos. One way we have been successful in educating about and exposing these puppy mills is by showing YOU, the consumer, what is really in your back yard. Through the USDA website and, when easily accessible, state department of Agriculture websites, we have pinpointed and color-coded the puppy mills that are lurking in the United States. To view our puppy mill maps, click here.  You can also view our new interactive website here

To view all of our completed puppy mill maps, click on our link above
 

How can I help?

There are many ways you can help the dogs trapped in puppy mills. They vary from being active, to just being an advocate. 

1. If you SEE something, SAY something. If you were someone that unknowingly stumbled upon a bad breeding facility to purchase a puppy, you need to report it! You can either report it to the USDA, your state agency, your local rescue or shelter, or you can contact us and we can point you in the right direction! 

2. Be an educator. One of the best ways you can help is by educating your friends, family and coworkers. By sharing this article and making a status about where you shouldn’t buy a dog could deter someone you know! Our organization firmly believes that educating the general public will be the end to puppy mills. Join our growing list of teams and help us fight the industry through education and advocacy! 

3. Be an advocate. Look in your area for pet stores that sell puppies and educate about your local problem. Hang up flyers (we can help!) or even start a local protest (we can help with that too!) Getting the word out locally, will break the lies of the pet store and will bring more awareness about puppy mills to your community. 

4. Contact your legislators. By letting your legislators know what you care about, it tells them how to vote. You can send a quick email to your legislator and just ask them where they stand on common sense animal issues, especially puppy mills. You may be shocked to find out that not everyone is an advocate for the animals. 

5. Don’t give pet stores that sell puppies your money. By boycotting a pet store that sells puppies, you are showing them that you can’t support their business. You can even tell the owner why you are choosing not to shop at their store anymore. To view a list of pet stores across the country that are selling puppy mill dogs, click here

6. Look for a reputable breeder in your area. If you are set on buying a puppy and you haven’t checked your local rescues or shelters, then ask your local canine club about reputable breeders. Just remember to always check out their facilities! 

7. USE SOCIAL MEDIA….. Spread the Word. Use the hashtag #ShowMeTheMommy on social media to stress the importance of asking to see the parent dogs before purchasing a puppy. You can also use #EndPuppyMills and #BailingOutBenji ! 

8. Stay updated. Like our facebook page , twitter and instagram. Stay updated on how you can help in your area. Don’t forget to SHARE!  

 

We are a small nonprofit organization that makes big changes with very few resources. Our research is used by the leading animal welfare organizations across the country, because what we do is so unique and important.  To make a one time donation or to sign up to be a sustaining supporter to allow us to continue our various programs that expose the puppy mill industry, click the donate button below.

 

 

2022 USDA Violations- Quarter 3

Bailing Out Benji is a national nonprofit organization that exists to provide transparency into the puppy mill industry. We forensically audit government health records and inspection reports in order to connect puppy mills and commercial dog breeders to the various outlets in which they sell. We pay for many of these documents and then make them available for free on our website and to the public in order to provide the transparency that the public deserves before buying a puppy. 

To see our pet store and online broker research, click here.

According to the USDA: An inspection report documents an inspector’s observations and professional assessments of compliance at facilities regulated under the AWA. Below we have compiled a list of all of the USDA dog breeders and brokers that have had violations in Quarter 3 of 2022.

This time period is from July 1st, 2022 to September 30th, 2022.

Editors note: USDA inspectors have 5 days to give a copy of their inspection to the licensee and 30 days to publish their reports online. There may be additional facilities we add to this list once more inspection reports are added to the database.

Omitted from these violations are missed inspections and teachable moments. The list below also only reflects dog and cat breeders and brokers (licenses A and B).

This list of violations below was obtained from the USDA APHIS search engine. Any pet store connections were obtained from various state departments of agriculture. 

You can view our previous 2022 violation reporters here: 

Quarter 1 Violations

Quarter 2 Violations

This time period is from July 1st, 2022 to September 30th, 2022.

Alabama

Hoof or Paw. Detroit, Alabama- Hoof or Paw also received violations and an Official USDA Warning in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their September 12, 2022, USDA inspection, Hoof or Paw received 5 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification, housing facilities, outdoor housing facilities, primary enclosures, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. This facility appears to be a rescue or shelter organization. At their September 12, 2022, focused inspection, Hoof or Paw received 1 direct violation pertaining to watering. Hoof or Paw 9.12.2022 and Hoof or Paw 9.12.2022 Focused 

Arkansas

Cindy Garner and Dwayne Garner. Booneville, Arkansas- At the time of their September 12, 2022, USDA inspection, Garner received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in at least three states.  Cindy Garner 9.12.2022

Dorothy O’Bar, Jodot Farm. Booneville, Arkansas- At the time of their August 16, 2022, USDA inspection, O’Bar received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning, housing facilities, and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling puppies to at least one pet store in Maine. Dorothy O’ Bar 8.16.2022

Elisa Brandvik. Ozark, Arkansas- At the time of their August 1,  2022, USDA inspection, Brandvik received 4 non-critical and 1 direct violation pertaining to primary enclosures, watering, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. At the time of their August 11, 2022 inspection, Brandvik received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. This facility received an Official USDA Warning on September 8, 2022, due to the violations on August 1, 2022.  Elisa Brandvik 8.1.2022 Elisa Brandvik 8.11.2022 USDA Warning Elisa Brandvik

Jerrie Joyce Gray. Searcy, Arkansas- At the time of their September 19, 2022, USDA inspection, Gray received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to contingency planning. Jerrie Gray 9.19.2022

Katherine Reece and Don Reece, Reece Kennel Cattery. Danville, Arkansas- At the time of their August 26, 2022, USDA inspection, Reece received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to access and inspection of records and property; submission of itineraries. Katherine & Don Reece 8.26.2022

Mia Prince, AR Premium Pets. Center Ridge, Arkansas- At the time of their August 24, 2022 USDA inspection, this facility received 1 non-critical violations pertaining to access to water. AR Premium Pets 8.24.2022

Michele R. George. Hindsville, Arkansas- At the time of their September 8, 2022, USDA inspection, George received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to sheltered housing facilities. Michele George 9.8.2022

Phil Weymouth and Yolanda Weymouth. Subiaco, Arkansas- At the time of their September 13, 2022, USDA inspection, Weymouth received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to contingency planning. Phil Weymouth & Yolanda Weymouth 9.13.2022

Shelba Canfield, Brooklyn Hill Kennels. Scranton, Arkansas- At the time of their September 13, 2022, USDA inspection, Canfield received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling puppies to pet stores in at least two states.  Phil Weymouth & Yolanda Weymouth 9.13.2022

Sherry Crossno and Steve Crossno, Painted Bluff Farm. Dardanelle, Arkansas- At the time of their August 24, 2022, USDA inspection, Crossno received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to contingency planning. Sherry Crossno & Steve Crossno 8.24.2022

Indiana

Daniel F. Wingard, Valleyhill Pups. Bristol, Indiana- At the time of their August 30, 2022, USDA inspection, Wingard received 1 direct and 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. This facility received an Official USDA Warning October 5, 2022 due to violations received on August 30, 2022. We have record of this facility selling puppies to at least one pet store in Pennsylvania. Daniel Wingard 8.30.2022 USDA Warning Daniel Wingard

Harvey Wagler. Odon, Indiana- At the time of their June 15, 2022, USDA inspection, Wagler received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. Harvey Wagler 6.15.2022

Kevin Wagler, K&R Farms. Montgomery, Indiana- At the time of their September 15, 2022, USDA inspection, Wagler received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. Kevin Wagler 9.15.2022

Willis Knepp. Montgomery, Indiana- At the time of their August 2, 2022, USDA inspection, Knepp received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification, and veterinary care for dogs.Willis Knepp 8.2.2022

Click here to learn more

Iowa

Alicia Krogmann. Mount Vernon, Iowa- At the time of their July 6, 2022, USDA inspection, Krogmann received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, records, and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store that has locations in Illinois and Iowa. Alicia Krogmann 7.6.2022

Alta Z Martin. Ionia, Iowa- At the time of their August 2, 2022, USDA new site inspection, Martin received 9 non-critical violations pertaining to requirements and application, attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, records, housing facilities, and veterinary care for dogs. At the time of their August 18, 2022, new site inspection, Martin received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. At the time of their August 30, 2022, new site inspection, Martin received 1 non-critical violation again pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Alta Martin 8.2.2022  Alta Martin 8.18.2022  Alta Martin 8.30.2022

Brian Felton. Centerville, Iowa- Felton also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their August 9, 2022, USDA inspection, Felton received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. We have record of this facility selling puppies through at least one broker. Brian Felton 8.9.2022

Carolyn Anderson, Anderson’s Yorkies. Mason City, Iowa- Anderson has received 38 USDA violations so far in 2022, as they also received violations in Quarter 1 and Quarter 2 of 2022. At their July 19, 2022, USDA focused inspection, Anderson received 5 non-critical and 1 critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, records, housing facilities, watering, and veterinary care for dogs. At the time of their August 22, 2022, focused inspection, Anderson received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. Carolyn Anderson 7.19.2022 Carolyn Anderson 8.22.2022

Edwin Burkholder and Lucille Burkholder. Riceville, Iowa-  Burkholder also received violations in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their July 28, 2022, USDA inspection, Burkholder received 8 non-critical violations pertaining to records, housing facilities, exercise for dogs, and veterinary care for dogs. Edwin & Lucille Burkholder 7.28.2022

Elliot Remick. Mount Pleasant, Iowa- At the time of their August 15, 2022, USDA inspection, Remick received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to requirements and application. Performing regulated activities without a USDA license. Elliott Remick 8.15.2022

Heather Anderson. Farmington, Iowa- at the time of their July 13, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Anderson received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to primary enclosures. The inspection was a re-license inspection for a Class A license.Heather Anderson 7.13.2022

Henry Sommers, Happy Puppy. Cincinnati, Iowa- Sommers also received violations in Quarter 1 and Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their August 16, 2022, USDA inspection, Sommers received 8 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, housing facilities, primary enclosures, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling puppies to at least one pet store in Nevada. Henry Sommers 8.16.2022

Ida Kauffman, Backyard Kennels. Hazelton, Iowa- Kauffman also received violations in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their  August 16, 2022, USDA inspection, Kauffman received 8 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, records, housing facilities, sheltered housing facilities, and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling to puppy stores and a major puppy broker in at least four states. Ida Kauffman 8.16.2022

Loren Yoder. Riverside, Iowa- Yoder also received violations in Quarter 1 and Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their September 12, 2022, USDA inspection, Yoder received 1 direct and 6 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification, records, housing facilities, primary enclosures, and feeding. Loren Yoder 9.12.2022

Lloyd Yoder, Meadow View Premier Puppies formerly known as Valley View Premium Puppies. Riverside, Iowa- This facility also received 21 violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their September 12, 2022, USDA inspection, Meadow View Premier Puppies received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to records and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. On the same date, Valleyview Premium Puppies received 1 violation pertaining to records. This facility cancelled their license under the name “Valley View Premium Puppies” and began a new license under Meadow View Premier Puppies after receiving numerous violations this year. Meadow View Premier Puppies 9.12.2022  Valley View Premium Puppies 9.12.2022

Samuel Borntreger. Northwood, Iowa- Borntreger also received violations in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their September 7, 2022, USDA inspection, Borntreger received 6 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification, records, housing facilities, primary enclosures, and veterinary care for dogs. Samuel Borntreger 9.7.2022

Steve Kruse, Stonehenge Kennel. West Point, Iowa- Kruse also received violations in Quarter 1 and Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their August 17, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Kruse received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and housing facilities. Steve Kruse 8.17.2022

William Davenport. Thayer, Iowa- At the time of their July 26, 2022 USDA Inspection, Davenport received 2 violations pertaining to requirements and application and access and inspection of records. William Davenport 7.26.2022

Kansas

Danell Rife and Joseph Rife. Westphalia, Kansas- At the time of their July 27, 2022, USDA inspection, Rife received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Danell Rife 7.27.2022

Greg Jones. Parsons, Kansas- Jones also received violations in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their August 30, 2022, USDA inspection, Jones received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. Greg Jones 8.30.2022

Michigan

Catitude. Calumet, Michigan- At the time of their August 23, 2022 USDA Inspection, this facility admitted that they were conducting regulated activity without a license. That violation led to an official warning from the USDA.  Cattitude 8.23.2022 USDA Warning Cattitude

Nathan Steury. Camden, Michigan- Steury also received a violation in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their July 27, 2022, USDA inspection, Steury received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. Nathan Steaury 7.27.2022

Minnesota 

John Henry Miller. Utica, Minnesota- At the time of their July 19, 2022, USDA inspection, Miller received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to minimum age requirements for resale. Miller sells to pet stores in at least 4 states and through one major dog broker. John Miller 7.19.2022

Mississippi 

Lynn Thompson, Furry Little Angels AKA Lynn Creek Chihuahuas. Brooksville, Mississippi- Thompson also received violations in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their September 16, 2022, USDA inspection, Thompson received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to contingency planning and veterinary care for dogs. Lynn Thompson 9.16.2022

Missouri 

Bernetta Williams. Norwood, Missouri- At the time of their August 2, 2022, USDA inspection, Williams received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and time and method of identification. Bernetta Williams 8.2.2022

Bobbie Lyell and Charleen Lyell, Royal Heritage Kennel. Hartville, Missouri- At the time of their August 8, 2022, USDA inspection, Royal Heritage Kennel received 1 direct and 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and handling of animals. This facility received an Official USDA Warning October 19, 2022, due to violations received on August 8, 2022. We have record of this facility selling puppies to pet stores in at least two states.  Royal Heritage Kennel LLC 8.8.2022 USDA Warning Royal Heritage Kennel LLC

Carolyn Lansdown and Clifford Lansdown, TLC Kennels. Hartville, Missouri- At the time of their July 13, 2022, USDA inspection, Lansdown received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate care. This facility received an Official USDA Warning on August 28, 2022, due to the violation on July 13, 2022. Carolyn Lansdown 7.13.2022 USDA Warning Carolyn Lansdown

Jacob Zook (ES), Zooks Kennel. Tunas, Missouri- At the time of their July 14, 2022, USDA inspection, Zook received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to time and method of identification. Jacob ES Zook 7.14.2022

John Reiff AKA Anna Mary Reiff, Rocky Branch Kennel. Latham, Missouri- After being listed as one of the worst puppy mills in the nation in 2017 and 2014, Reiff cancelled their previous license and began a new one at the same address but under a different name. At the time of their September 14, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Reiff received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to removal and disposal of tags, records, and primary enclosures.  John Reiff 9.14.2022

Mary Ann Smith, Smiths Kennels. Salem, Missouri- At the time of their July 19, 2022, USDA inspection, Smith received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities, watering, and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling puppies to pet stores in at least 6 states.Mary Ann Smith 7.19.2022

Melissa Bilbruck. Bates City, Missouri- Bilbruck received an Official USDA Warning stemming from violations they received on June 9th, 2022. USDA Warning Melissa Bilbruck

Ruben Rissler and Eva Mae Rissler, R&R Kennel. Barnett, Missouri- At the time of their September 7, 2022, USDA inspection, Rissler received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this breeder selling puppies through at least one dog broker. Ruben Rissler & Eva Mae Rissler 9.7.2022

Stephen A. Bennett. Theodosia, Missouri- At the time of their September 28, 2022, USDA inspection, Bennett received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification, records, and veterinary care for dogs. Stephen Bennett 9.28.2022

Tina Martin and Troy Martin, TNT Puppies. Holden, Missouri- At the time of their September 21, 2022, USDA inspection, Martin received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Tina Martin & Troy Martin 9.21.2022

Montana 

Jack’s Pet Center. Great Falls, Montana- At the time of their June 30, 2022, USDA inspection, Jack’s Pet Center received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities. Jack’s Pet Center 6.30.2022

 Nebraska 

John Troyer, Andrew Troyer, and Jim Troyer, Troyer Kennel. Milford, Nebraska- At the time of their August 24, 2022, USDA inspection, Troyer received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. John, Andrew, & Jim Troyer 8.24.2022

 

Click here to learn more

New York 

Aaron Zimmerman. Dundee, New York- Zimmerman also received violations during Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their July 28, 2022, USDA inspection, Zimmerman received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Aaron Zimmerman 7.28.2022

Barbara Ann Miller, Millers Country Puppies. Panama, New York- At the time of their August 1, 2022, USDA inspection, Millers Country Puppies received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Millers Country Puppies 8.1.2022

Daniel Yoder and Sadie Yoder. Jasper, New york- At the time of their August 19, 2022, USDA inspection, Yoder received 1 critical and 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities and attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. This facility received an Official USDA Warning on October 5, 2022, due to violations received on August 19, 2022. Sadie & Daniel Yoder 8.19.2022 USDA Warning Sadie & Daniel Yoder

Ohio

Andy Nisley, Nunda Valley Kennels. Howard, Ohio- Nisley received an Official USDA Warning during Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their September 13, 2022, USDA inspection, Nisley received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. Andy Nisley 9.13.2022

David R Yoder, Waterfall Puppies. Dundee, Ohio- At the time of their September 27, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Waterfall Puppies received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to primary enclosures, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. Waterfall Puppies 9.27.2022

Dennis Hershberger, Hershey Puppy Pals. Charm, Ohio- At the time of their September 29, 2022, USDA inspection, Hershberger received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Dennis Hershberger 9.29.2022

Dennis Mast and Susan Mast Yoder, Alpine Lane Paws LTD. Dundee, Ohio- At the time of their August 22, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Alpine Lane Paws received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to housing facilities. Alpine Lane Paws LTD 8.22.2022

Harvey Troyer, Sunrise Kennel. Baltic, Ohio- At the time of their September 28, 2022, USDA inspection, Troyer received 5 non-critical violations pertaining to records, primary enclosures, and veterinary care for dogs.  Harvey Troyer 9.28.2022

​​Henry Wengerd. Dundee, Ohio- At the time of their September 26, 2022, USDA inspection, Wengerd received 5 non-critical violations pertaining to housing facilities, feeding, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. Henry Wengerd 9.26.2022

Melvin E. Troyer, Dutch Fork Harness Horses. Apple Creek, Ohio- At the time of their September 26, 2022, USDA inspection, Troyer received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to records and veterinary care for dogs. Melvin Troyer 9.26.2022

Mose Miller, Maple View Miller AKA Maple View Kennel. Baltic, Ohio- At the time of their September 28, 2022, USDA inspection, Miller received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Mose Miller 9.28.2022

Nathan Bazler and Sarah Bazler, Little Puppies Online AKA Dogs to the Rescue Ohio. Mount Vernon, Ohio- This facility received an Official USDA Warning on August 17, 2022 due to violations stemming from a December 21, 2021 USDA inspection. Official USDA Warning Little Puppies Online

Ronnie Coblentz, Woodland Puppies LLC. Millersburg, Ohio- At the time of their September 27, 2022, USDA inspection, Woodland Puppies received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to exercise for dogs and veterinary care for dogs. Woodland Puppies LLC 9.27.2022

Oklahoma

Chris McGill, Horseshoe Lane AKA Chris’s Kennel. Mcalester, Oklahoma- McGill received an Official USDA Warning due to violations received on May 19, 2022. You can view those violations in our Quarter 2 report. USDA Warning Chris McGill

Cynthia Paula Jack, Coal Creek Kennel. Stringtown, Oklahoma- Jack also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their June 28, 2022, USDA inspection, Jack received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Cynthia Paula Jack 6.28.2022

Teresa Graham, Graham’s Kennels. Garvin, Oklahoma- At the time of their August 24, 2022, USDA inspection, Graham received 2 direct violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and indoor housing facilities.  This facility received an Official USDA Warning on October 5, 2022, due to violations received on August 24, 2022. Teresa Graham 8.24.2022 USDA Warning Teresa Graham

Pennsylvania 

Amos King and Rebecca King. Blain, Pennsylvania- At the time of their August 11, 2022, USDA inspection, King received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Amos & Rebecca King 8.11.2022

John Jay Lapp, Peaceful Acres Puppies LLC. Millerstown, Pennsylvania- At the time of their August 2, 2022, USDA inspection, Peaceful Acres Puppies received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to records. Peaceful Acres Puppies LLC 8.2.2022

Jonas Stoltzfus, True Dreem Kennel. Rebersburg, Pennsylvania- At the time of their August 10, 2022, USDA inspection, True Dreem Kennel received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to exercise and veterinary care for dogs. Tru Dreem Kennel 8.10.2022

Tennessee

Barbara Bridges, The Dog House. Enville, Tennessee- At the time of their August 9, 2022, USDA Inspection, Bridges received 3 non-critical violations pertaining to time and method of identification, and veterinary care for dogs.  Barbara Bridges 8.9.2022

Washington 

Puget Sound Doodles LLC. Lyman, Washington- At the time of their September 20, 2022, USDA inspection, Puget Sound Doodles received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Puget Sound Doodles LLC 9.20.2022

Wisconsin

Andrew Miller. Abbotsford, Wisconsin- At the time of their September 7, 2022, USDA inspection, Miller received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to time and method of identification. Andrew Miller 9.7.2022

Daniel L. Yoder, Rainbow Ridge Kennels. Cashton, Wisconsin- At the time of their July 20, 2022, USDA inspection, Yoder received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling puppies through at least one dog broker. Daniel Yoder 7.20.2022

Esther Schlueter, El Ranchito Pets INC. Cazenovia, Wisconsin- At the time of their July 27, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, El Ranchito Pets received 2 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, and veterinary care for dogs. We have record of this facility selling to at least one pet store in Wisconsin. El Ranchito Pets INC 7.27.2022

Harley E. Bontrager. Cambria, Wisconsin- At the time of their July 27, 2022, USDA inspection, Bontrager received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Harley E. Bontrager 7.27.2022

Jill Kane  and Clinton Kane, Tri Valley Resources LLC. Spring Green, Wisconsin- At the time of their September 28, 2022, USDA inspection, Tri Valley Resources received 1 non-critical violation pertaining to primary enclosures.Tri Valley Resources LLC 9.28.2022

Junior Yutzy. Hillsboro, Wisconsin- Yutzy also received violations in Quarter 2 of 2022. At the time of their August 24, 2022, USDA inspection, Yutzy received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification, primary enclosures, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Junior Yutzy 8.24.2022

Paul Zimmerman. Boyd, Wisconsin- At the time of their July 5, 2022, USDA re-license inspection, Zimmerman received 4 non-critical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, primary enclosures, and veterinary care for dogs. Zimmerman also missed his follow up inspection on September 6, 2022. Paul Zimmerman 7.5.2022

 

You can view our previous 2022 violation reporters here: 

Quarter 1 Violations

Quarter 2 Violations

 

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Meet the Team: Peggy Race

In honor of Puppy Mill Awareness month, I am super excited to announce our newest segment of Tails and Truths, “Meet the Team!”

Bailing Out Benji’s primary goal has always been to raise awareness of mass breeding and its connection to pet stores. What started as an incredibly small grassroots effort has grown to a National level with volunteers across the country!

We want to take a moment to introduce our supporters to the members of our team. The individuals who help us raise awareness each and every day. While they all possess the passion and dedication to ending puppy mills, they are uniquely different as human beings and we want to recognize and celebrate them!

There are hundreds of volunteers to recognize so it was difficult to decide where to start. However, there is one volunteer whom I personally helped to find Bailing Out Benji through a random, interesting way that will always mean a lot to me.

Peggy Race and I have a mutual business friend who told her about my book. After reading it, she reached out to me and we met for coffee.

After reading the book and learning more about puppy mills, Peggy wanted to get involved and help. At the time, I was not affiliated with Bailing Out Benji but knew that they were branching out and could tell Peggy would be a valuable asset. I told her about the organization and introduced her to Mindi.

Here we are years later and Peggy has become a vital part (Co-Leader) of the Wisconsin team of Bailing Out Benji!

Peggy happily agreed to sit down and share more about herself as our first Meet the Team interviewee! 

When did you start volunteering for BOB? I believe it was somewhere around March or April 2017

What state do you represent? Wisconsin

What made you want to be a part of BOB? I was at a point in my life where I was searching for purpose. I was gifted the book, Bark Until Heard. After reading it, I was shocked at what I learned, yet inspired to learn more about puppy mills and to make a difference for the dogs. Prior to reading the book, I had heard about puppy mills but in a sense, I kept a blind eye to the truth. The book connected with me on another level and my journey towards becoming an advocate began.

How did you hear about BOB? After reading Bark Until Heard and learning that the author lived in northern Illinois at that time, I reached out to her and we set up a time to meet. During that get together, Becky mentioned Bailing Out Benji and threw that out as a way I might possibly get involved. Becky connected me to Mindi and the rest is history!

How would you describe what you do for BOB? I am one of the team leads for the WI chapter. I, along with my co-lead, Christin Schubert, hold volunteer meetings to welcome new members. We also schedule and attend tabling events. Periodically, I write up a newsletter for our email supporters. Since 2020, I’ve helped with various pet store ordinances and have provided literature to advocates who are interested in learning more on how they can introduce an ordinance in their town.

What do you enjoy most about BOB? Tabling events are one of my favorite activities. Covid put a dent in those over the past couple years and turned our focus to ordinances. In general, I like attending various events and sharing our message. While I might be educating others, I also find the events educational; especially learning from the experiences of others, whether they purchased a pet store puppy or fostered/adopted a surrendered mill dog. 

Describe your life (family, significant other, children, pets, job, hobbies — whatever makes you, you!) My family is basically myself and my three dogs. I’m divorced from my first husband and widowed from my second. Today, my life’s focus is on dogs. I have a thirteen-year-old border collie, who I used to compete in CPE agility events with. I also have a 5-1/2-year-old Cocker Mix who I adopted from the National Mill Dog Rescue in Colorado. Deputy was eight months old at the time NMDR took him in. He came from a breeder in Kansas who shut down his business after the state would no longer license him. 

My most recent adoptee is Serafina, a six-year-old Yorkie mix. She was a breeder release dog from an Amish breeder in Central WI. Serafina is a foster fail. I foster dogs through Albert’s Dog Lounge, a senior and special needs rescue. She was my eighth foster dog. I love the outdoors and I’m pretty active. My dogs get a couple long walks each day. Deputy and I are currently involved in agility lessons. Outside of dog activities, I would consider writing to be a hobby. I self-published a rhyming picture book inspired by Deputy to help share the message about puppy mills to the younger generation. My memoir was released in August 2021 by Black Rose Writing. I am currently a volunteer writer with Best Friends Animal Society, writing stories about dogs or cats who have been adopted through Best Friends.

For the past 34 years, I’ve been employed by a company that manufactures whole food supplements. I enjoy partaking in volunteer vacations where I can spend time with dogs. I’ve volunteered several times at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary (Utah). I’ve also taken volunteer vacations to the National Mill Dog Rescue (Colorado) and the Animal Rescue Corps (Tennessee), helping care for some of the puppy mill dogs relinquished from the Daniel Gingrich operation in Iowa

What do you think is the most important message about puppy mills the public needs to hear? The pockets of everyone that plays a role in the puppy mill pipeline are being lined by the purchases made by consumers. People need to realize that the cute little puppy in the pet store window, not only has parents who are confined in small areas for their entire breeding life, those puppies are nothing more than a money-making product for the puppy mill pipeline. The mass produced; factory farmed animals need us to be their voice. Since we live in a democratic society, we have been granted the opportunity to be part of legislative change. An opportunity that could alter the world of puppy mills as they exist today.

Additional Comment: I also think that people should look beyond the cute little face in the pet store window. I wonder how many people even question the living conditions of a puppy in the pet store. They spend their day on living/lying on pvc coated grid style cage flooring. I remember seeing puppies in Janesville Furry Babies in baby cribs without fresh water available…although, I was told the employees offer water frequently. In Petland, puppies are usually left to drink from rabbit type watering bottle where they get small drops of water rather than lapping up water from a bowl as a dog should. While that is all visible to the pet shop consumer, I have to wonder what conditions are like and the care that is provided after the store closes. 

What do you think is the biggest challenge facing us in ending mass breeding? In a sense, I think its two-fold. Mass breeding is legal and therefore, without strict legislation and enforcement, it will remain that way. But I do believe the biggest challenge is the profitability side of the industry. If the industry suddenly starting losing dollars, we would see puppy mills start fading away. Changing consumer perception is not always an easy road to traverse.

What keeps you inspired/motivated to keep fighting? The animals who are still trapped and need our help.

What is one (or more) of the favorite things you have done, participated in, helped with, etc since becoming a part of BOB? That’s a tough one. Certainly being part of a team that helped pass the first pet store ordinance in the state of Wisconsin in my hometown of Whitewater was very exciting. That helped get the ball rolling in Wisconsin and to date, seven cities now have these local ordinances on the books. Being that I’m a person who loves to learn and enjoys finding out the finer details of various things, I have a couple of other very memorable situations that stick with me. Back in 2019, in my quest to learn more about the entire commercial dog breeding industry, I attended a dog auction in Iowa. The auction was a kennel dispersal. I believe the breeder had 2 or 3 different breeding facilities and was closing that one down. Being able to walk through an actual puppy mill and see the various housing units….several small dogs in cages and whelping pens for the moms and pups, really drove home the message that these dogs are viewed as nothing more than factory farmed animals. In fact, I am still haunted by the image of a cocker spaniel who ran circles in its cage as it chased its shadow on the ground. It truly broke my heart to see how confinement just can drive a dog stir crazy. During that trip, I was accompanied by Christin Schubert (co-team lead) and my sister Paula Brown (also a BOB volunteer). The day prior to the auction, Mindi C. (she did not attend the auction) met us and drove us past several larger Iowa puppy mills. Ironically, one of those mills had more dogs housed on the property than the number of residents in the city. Driving past, I snapped a couple photos of dogs living in wire cages that protruded off the end of a run-down barn. Three weeks later, Christin and I went to Racine Petland, once again doing our homework, and the owner handed her a lethargic looking Cavapoo puppy. I did, what any consumer should do and asked about the parents. The owner brought out a binder and told us who the breeder was. Lo and behold, the puppy had come from the same property that Mindi had driven us past, the one I had photos of. Not only that, Petland Racine plays breeder videos in their store and on their website. They make the breeder properties they source from look spacious and immaculate. When I asked to see the video of that breeder’s property, I was told they didn’t have one but they told me they had personally visited the property and “it was as beautiful as the videos playing in the store.” I was dumbfounded when I heard that. I followed up with Mindi the following day, asking how can the store can legally do that, she said, that’s one of the reasons why we have the slogan, “Don’t buy the lies.” 

Any goals, dreams, hopes you want to share? Of course, I would like nothing better than to see a Statewide Pet Store Ordinance in Wisconsin. Even with that, it would not help the parent dogs who sit trapped in WI mills producing puppies to be sent out of state to other less regulated communities. Ideally, there would be federal limits placed on the number of breeding dogs any person could own as well as limits to breeding cycles. My hope is that one day we will live in a humane world and I believe that future lies with today’s youth.

Any messages you want to pass on? Anyone can make a difference. I’m a shy, introvert and it took me over a year to get up the courage to approach my council representative regarding a pet store ordinance. Once I got over that first hurdle (my own mental roadblock) things just naturally transpired. I would say, that if you believe in something, then believe you have what it takes to make a difference….you don’t need to be an advocate. Just educating one person can make a difference. Because every person who educates another individual creates an opportunity where that knowledge can be exponentially shared.

Thank you, Peggy, for all of your truly amazing contributions to Bailing Out Benji! Your tireless efforts have really helped to educate so many people in Wisconsin and have helped put an end to selling mass bred puppies in many areas of the state!

Your books are helping to share the truth and your love of fostering is saving animals’ lives. We are so very proud to have you on our team!

Peggy’s books, since she humbly did not mention them, are Deputy Paws and the Puppy Mill Cause and Desiree, The Music of My Soul. I have read both and they are equally brilliant and beautiful.

If you are a current volunteer for Bailing Out Benji, I would love to feature you! Please email me at bmonroe@bailingoutbenji.com for more information! 

If you want to learn more about becoming a volunteer with Bailing Out Benji, click here. 

2022 USDA Violations: Quarter 2

Bailing Out Benji is a national nonprofit organization that independently audits government health records and inspection reports in order to connect puppy mills to the various outlets in which they sell. We pay for many of these documents and then make them available for free on our website and to the public in order to provide the transparency that the public deserves before buying a puppy. 

To see our pet store and online broker research, click here.

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According to the USDA: An inspection report documents an inspector’s observations and professional assessments of compliance at facilities regulated under the AWA. Below we have compiled a list of all of the USDA dog breeders and brokers that have had violations in Quarter 2 of 2022.

This time period is from April 1st, 2022 to June 30, 2022. 

Editors note: USDA inspectors have 5 days to give a copy of their inspection to the licensee and 30 days to publish their reports online. There may be additional facilities we add to this list once more inspection reports are added to the database.

Omitted from these violations are missed inspections and teachable moments. The list below also only reflects dog and cat breeders and brokers (licenses A and B).

This list of violations below was obtained from the USDA APHIS search engine. Any pet store connections were obtained from various state departments of agriculture. 

You can view our previous reporting on USDA violations in our Quarter 1 report here and our latest reporting on Quarter 3 here. 

This time period is from April 1st, 2022 to June 30, 2022. 

Alabama

George Cagle, Southern Grace Kennels. Detroit, Alabama- At the time of their May 16, 2022 USDA inspection, Cagle received 1 Direct violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. This facility cancelled their USDA license after these violations, but continue to breed and sell animals. Southern Grace Kennels 5.16.2022. This facility received an Official USDA Warning on June 16, 2022 due to violations received on May 16, 2022. USDA Warning Southern Grace Kennels

Hoof or Paw. Detroit, Alabama- At the time of their May 9, 2022 USDA inspection, Hoof or Paw received 2 non-critical and one critical violation pertaining to housing facilities, outdoor housing facilities and primary enclosures. One of these violations occurred because of the death of an animal. This facility appears to be a rescue or shelter organization. Hoof or Paw 5.9.2022 This facility received an Official USDA Warning on June 16, 2022 due to violations they received on May 9, 2022. USDA Warning Hoof Or Paw

Colorado

Lavern Coblentz, Green Mountain LLC. La Jara, Colorado- At the time of their April 20, 2022 USDA inspection, Coblentz received 1 violation pertaining to housing facilities. Green Mountain 4.20.2022

Illinois

James Yoder, Wagging Tails LLC. Ava, Illinois- At the time of their May 25, 2022 USDA inspection, Yoder received 2 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and housing facilities. Wagging Tails 5.25.2022

Lamar Miller and Loretta Miller, JC Puppies. Arcola, Illinois- At the time of their April 18, 2022 USDA inspection, Miller received 1 violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Lamar Miller 4.18.2022

Sailfin Pet Shop. Champaign, Illinois- At the time of their May 25, 2022 USDA inspection, Sailfin Pet Shop received 1 violation pertaining to primary enclosures. Sailfin Pet Shop 5.25.2022

Indiana

Envigo RMS, Inc. Indianapolis, Indiana- This research facility holds a Class A Breeder license. At their May 3, 2022 focused inspection, Envigo received 1 USDA violation pertaining to primary enclosures. Envigo 5.3.2022

Martin Miller. Lagrange, Indiana- At the time of their May 25, 2022 USDA inspection, Miller received 2 violations pertaining to veterinary care for dogs and time and method of identification. Martin Miller 5.25.2022 We have record of this breeder selling puppies through USDA broker JAKS Puppies

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Iowa

Becky Haberman and Brian Haberman, Sunny Hill Puppies AKA Shady Oaks. Northwood, Iowa- At the time of their April 15, 2022 USDA inspection, Haberman received 7 violations pertaining to time and method of identification, records, housing facilities, outdoor housing facilities, feeding, and watering. Becky Haberman 4.15.2022

Brian Sterrenberg, Brian’s Kennels AKA PurebredPups.com. Joice, Iowa- At the time of their April 20, 2022 USDA inspection, Sterrenberg received 3 ‘teachable moment’ notes that other licensees received violations for. These moments recorded were pertaining to records and attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care . Brian Sterrenberg 4.20.2022

Carolyn Anderson, Anderson’s Yorkies. Mason City, Iowa- Anderson has received 31 USDA violations so far in 2022, as they also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At their May 26, 2022 USDA inspection, Anderson received 15 violations, including 1 critical violation, pertaining to time and method of identification, records, handling of animals, housing facilities, compatible grouping, exercise for dogs, and veterinary care for dogs. Carolyn Anderson 5.26.2022

Donald Conrad, Conrad’s Kennel. Keota, Iowa- At the time of their April 20, 2022 USDA inspection, Conrad received 1 violation pertaining to records. Donald Conrad 4.20.2022

Edwin Burkholder and Lucille Burkholder. Riceville, Iowa- At the time of their May 5, 2022 USDA inspection, Burkholder received 6 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification, records, and housing facilities. Edwin Burkholder 5.5.2022

Eli Gingerich and Edna Gingerich. Drakesville, Iowa- At the time of their May 17, 2022 USDA inspection, Gingerich received 2 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and housing facilities.  Eli Gingerich 5.17.2022. We have record of this facility selling to puppy stores and a major puppy broker in at least six states.

Harley Yoder. Chariton, Iowa- At the time of their April 26, 2022 USDA inspection, Yoder received 1 violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care.  Harley Yoder 4.26.2022. We have record of this facility selling to puppy stores and a major puppy broker in at least seven states.

Henry Sommers, Happy Puppy. Cincinnati, Iowa- Sommers also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their April 25, 2022 USDA inspection, Sommers received 2 direct and 5 noncritical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, housing facilities, watering and veterinary care for dogs. Henry Sommers 4.25.2022.  We have record of this facility selling puppies to a pet store in Nevada

Ida Kauffman, Backyard Kennels. Hazleton, Iowa- At the time of their April 5, 2022 USDA inspection, Kauffman received 5 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification, records and veterinary care for dogs. Ida Kauffman 4.5.2022. We have record of this facility selling to puppy stores and a major puppy broker in at least four states.

Jason Beyer and Sarah Beyer, J&S Puppies. Tama, Iowa- At the time of their April 12, 2022 USDA inspection, Beyer received 3 noncritical and 1 critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification, handling of animals and primary enclosures. Jason Beyer 4.12.2022. This facility also received an Official USDA Warning on May 26, 2022 due to violations they received on April 12, 2022. USDA Warning J&S Puppies

Larry Albrecht, Coldwater Kennel. Greene, Iowa- Albrecht also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their May 25, 2022 USDA inspection, Albrecht received 4 USDA violations pertaining to time and method of identification, records, primary enclosures, and compatible grouping. Larry Albrecht 5.25.2022. We have record of this facility selling to puppy stores in at least three states.

Lavern Nolt, Twin Birch Kennels. Charles City, Iowa-  Nolt also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their June 21, 2022 USDA inspection, Nolt received 4 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification, records, and veterinary care for dogs. Lavern Nolt 6.21.2022

Lawrence Nolt. Charles City, Iowa- At the time of their April 28, 2022 USDA inspection, Nolt received 3 USDA violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, primary enclosures, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Lawrence Nolt 4.28.2022

Linda Thompson, Rolinda Acres Country AKA Thompson’s Puppies. Waterville, Iowa-  Thompson also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their June 16, 2022 USDA inspection, Thompson received  1 violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Linda Thompson 6.16.2022. This facility received an Official USDA Warning on April 14, 2022 due to violations they received on March 10, 2022. USDA Warning Linda Thompson

Loren Yoder. Riverside, Iowa-Yoder also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their June 8, 2022 USDA inspection, Yoder received 2 violations pertaining to housing facilities. Loren Yoder 6.8.2022

Menno Gingerich, Skyline Puppies. Albia, Iowa- Gingerich also received 4 USDA violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At their June 27, 2022 USDA inspection, Gingerich received 7 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification, housing facilities, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control, and veterinary care for dogs. Menno Gingerich 6.27.2022

Ray Eash, Ridge Road Kennels LLC. Blakesburg, Iowa- At the time of their April 13, 2022 USDA inspection, Eash received 1 violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Ridge Road Kennels 4.13.2022

Raymond Nisley, Barkin Acres Kennel. Edgewood, Iowa- At the time of their April 26, 2022 USDA inspection, Nisley received 2 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care.  Raymond Nisley 4.26.2022. We have record of this facility selling a puppy to King’s Neptune, an Illinois store, through broker JAKS Puppies after this violation and after the state law went into effect prohibiting this. 

Samuel Borntreger. Northwood, Iowa- At the time of their April 11, 2022 USDA inspection, Borntreger received 5 violations pertaining to records, housing facilities, and primary enclosures. Samuel Borntreger. 4.11.2022

Scott Swanson, S&J Kennel. Keota, Iowa- At the time of their June 6, 2022 USDA inspection, Swanson received 6 violations pertaining to housing facilities, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control and veterinary care for dogs. Scott Swanson 6.6.2022. We have record of this facility selling puppies to pet stores in Virginia.

Steve Kruse, Kruse Kennels AKA Stonehenge Kennels. West Point, Iowa-  Kruse also received USDA violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their June 22, 2022 USDA inspection, Kruse received 1 direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Steve Kruse 6.22.2022

Woody Wiley. Cantril, Iowa- This facility also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their May 24, 2022 USDA inspection, Wiley received 1 USDA violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care. Woody Wiley 5.24.2022

Kansas

Eric Laderer and Vickie Laderer. Fulton, Kansas- At the time of their May 11, 2022 USDA inspection, Laderer received 4 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, housing facilities, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Eric Laderer 5.11.2022

Greg Jones. Parsons, Kansas- At the time of their June 2, 2022 USDA inspection, Jones received 2 violations pertaining to records and veterinary care for dogs. Greg Jones 6.2.2022

Jim Kramer, Auction House. Arcadia, Kansas- This facility received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. On April 14, 2022, this facility also received an Official USDA Warning due to violations they received on February 26, 2022. USDA Warning Jim Kramer

Mary Moore, D&M Kennel. Uniontown, Kansas- At the time of their May 25, 2022 USDA inspection, Moore received 5 violations pertaining to time and method of identification, records, housing facilities, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control and veterinary care for dogs.  Mary Moore 5.25.2022

Mississippi

Lynn Thompson, Furry Little Angels AKA Lynn Creek Chihuahuas. Brooksville, Mississippi- At the time of their May 6, 2022 USDA inspection, Thompson received 6 violations pertaining to time and method of identification, records, housing facilities, and veterinary care for dogs. Lynn Thompson 5.6.2022

Missouri

Andy Borntrager and Verna Borntrager, Borntrager Kennels. Norwood, Missouri- At the time of their June 14, 2022 USDA inspection, Borntrager received 2 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and watering. Andy Borntrager 6.14.2022

Andy Gingerich. Clark, Missouri- At the time of their April 12, 2022 USDA inspection, Gingerich received 1 violation pertaining to housing facilities. Andy Gingerich. 4.12.2022

Deanna Brundage. Mercer, Missouri- One June 1, 2022 this facility was fined $12,000 and is permanently disqualified from holding a USDA license. USDA Order Deanna Brundage

Edna Troyer and Elmer Troyer, Timber View Kennel. Clark, Missouri- Troyer also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their May 18, 2022 USDA inspection, Troyer received 1 violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control.  Edna Troyer 5.18.2022 We have record of this facility selling puppies to pet stores in at least 6 states.

Ellen Roberts, Rocky Top K-9s . West Plains, Missouri- Roberts also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their May 19, 2022 USDA inspection, Roberts received 3 violations pertaining to primary enclosures and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Ellen Roberts 5.19.2022. We have record of this facility selling puppies to pet stores in Florida. 

Joel Ponting, Boulder Oaks Kennel LLC. West Plains, Missouri- At the time of their June 22, 2022 USDA inspection, Boulder Oaks received 1 violation pertaining to primary enclosures. Boulder Oaks Kennel 6.22.2022

Joey Bishop. Seneca, Missouri- Bishop received an Official USDA Warning on June 9, 2022 due to violations received on April 1, 2022. Those violations are not public on the USDA website. Official USDA Warning Joey Bishop

Linda Williams and Matt Williams. Wentworth, Missouri- At the time of their April 15, 2022 USDA inspection, Williams received 1 violation pertaining to primary enclosures. Linda Williams 4.15.2022

Lisa Stark, Toybox Puppies. Barnett, Missouri- At the time of their June 22, 2022 USDA inspection, Stark received 1 violations pertaining to primary enclosures. Toybox Puppies 6.22.2022

Marilyn Byerley, MB Kennel. Mountain Grove, Missouri- At the time of their June 8, 2022 USDA inspection, MB Kennel received 3 violations pertaining to records, outdoor housing facilities, and veterinary care for dogs. MB Kennel. 6.8.2022

Melissa Bilbruck. Bates City, Missouri- On June 9, 2022 the USDA inspected Bilbruck’s associated address to find that they were operating as a dog dealer without a valid USDA license. Melissa Bilbruck 6.9.2022

Tom Nelson, Oak Ridge Pets. Macon, Missouri- At the time of their May 20, 2022 USDA inspection, Nelson received 1 violation pertaining to primary enclosures. Tom Nelson 5.20.2022

Vickie Burden, B&H Kennels. Dora, Missouri- At the time of their April 12, 2022  USDA inspection, Burden received 1 direct and 1 non direct violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and records. Burden also received 1 violation pertaining to records at a follow up, focused inspection. Vickie Burden 4.12.2022 Vickie Burden 4.22.2022. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in Texas. This facility also received an Official USDA Warning on May 26, 2022 due to violations they received on April 12, 2022. USDA Warning Vickie Burden

Nebraska

Randy Schweitzer, Route 6 Kennels. Milford, Nebraska- At the time of their April 26, 2022 USDA inspection, Schweitzer refused to allow the inspector to take photos during the inspection. This refusal caused the inspection to stop. Randy Schweitzer 4.26.2022

New York

Aaron Zimmerman. Dundee, New York- At the time of their April 18, 2022 USDA inspection, Zimmerman received 1 direct and 1 non-critical violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control and veterinary care for dogs. Aaron Zimmerman 4.18.2022. This facility received an Official USDA Warning on May 19, 2022 due to violations received on April 18, 2022. USDA Warning Aaron Zimmerman

Ammon Martin. Penn Yan, New York- At the time of their June 14, 2022 USDA inspection, Martin received 1 violation pertaining to records. Ammon Martin 6.14.2022

Marshall Farms Group LTD. North Rose, New York- This research facility holds a Class A breeder license. At their April 4, 2022 USDA inspection, Marshall Farms received 1 violation pertaining to housing facilities. Marshall Farms Group LTD. 4.4.2022

Matthew Sensenig, Hidden Acres Kennels. Penn Yan, New York- At the time of their April 12, 2022 USDA inspection, Sensenig received 1 violation pertaining to housing facilities. Matthew Sensenig 4.12.2022

Melvin Shirk. Penn Yan, New York- At the time of their June 14, 2022 USDA inspection, Shirk received 2 violations pertaining to  housing facilities and veterinary care for dogs. Melvin Shirk 6.14.2022

Samuel Brubacker, Hilltop Country Kennel. Dundee, New York-  Brubacker also received USDA violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their April 28, 2022 USDA inspection, Brubacker received 1 violation pertaining to sheltered housing facilities. Samuel Brubacker 4.28.2022

Samuel Zimmerman, S&L Kennels. Dundee, New York- At the time of their May 25, 2022 USDA inspection, Zimmerman received 2 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Samuel Zimmerman 5.25.2022

Shem Swarey. Fort Plain, New York- At the time of their May 17, 2022 USDA inspection, Swarey received 1 violations pertaining to records. Shem Swarey 5.17.2022

Stevie Hoover, Hill Country Kennel. Dundee, New York- At the time of their April 12, 2022 USDA inspection, Hoover received 1 violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Stevie Hoover 4.12.2022

Ohio

Paul Yoder. Millersburg, Ohio- On April 19, 2022 a USDA inspector arrived at Yoder’s facility to confirm that they were conducting AWA regulated activity without a license. This inspection has since been removed from the USDA website. Paul Yoder 4.19.2022. This facility received an Official USDA Warning on May 26, 2022 due to violations they received on April 19, 2022. USDA Warning Paul Yoder

Treeline Kennel. Alexandria Ohio- Treeline Kennel received an Official USDA Warning onJune 27, 2021 due to violations incurred in December 2021. USDA Warning Treeline Kennel

Oklahoma

Chris McGill, Horseshoe Lane AKA Chris’s Kennel. Mcalester, Oklahoma- At the time of their May 19, 2022 USDA inspection, McGill received 4 direct and 2 noncritical violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, records, cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control and employees. Chris McGill 5.19.2022. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in Texas. 

Rhonda Frederick, Luvable Puppies. Okmulgee, Oklahoma- At the time of their April 21, 2022 USDA inspection, Frederick received 2 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and housing facilities. Rhonda Frederick 4.21.2022. We have record of this facility selling to pet stores in Texas. 

Tamara Blackoak Skinner, PomPered Biewers. Cleveland, Oklahoma- This facility received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. This facility also received an Official USDA Warning on May 12, 2022 due to the violations from their March 28, 2022 inspection. USDA Warning Tamara Blackoak Skinner

Pennsylvania

Crist Lapp, Meadow View Kennel. Ronks, Pennsylvania- At the time of their June 1, 2022 USDA inspection, Lapp had 1 violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Lapp also had an additional 2 violations pertaining to veterinary care at their April 4, 2022 inspection. Crist Lapp 4.4.2022  Crist Lapp 6.1.2022

Marlin Zimmerman and Esther Zimmerman, Turkey Hill Kennel. East Earl, Pennsylvania- At their April 26, 2022 USDA inspection, Zimmerman received 1 USDA violation pertaining to veterinary care for dogs. Marlin Zimmerman 4.26.2022

South Dakota

Cindy Hubers, Da Pa Kli Kennels. Harrison, South Dakota- At the time of their April 4, 2022 USDA inspection, Hubers received 1 direct and 1 non-critical violation pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Cindy Hubers 4.4.2022. This facility received an Official USDA Warning on May 19, 2022 due to violations they received on April 4, 2022. USDA Warning Cindy Hubers . Hubers was also actively selling to the Nebraska dog broker Crittersville during this time period. 

Vickie Hines, Lar-Kie Kennel. Woonsocket, South Dakota- At the time of their May 26, 2022 USDA inspection, Hines received 8 USDA violations pertaining to time and method of identification, records, housing facilities, primary enclosures, and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Vickie Hines 5.26.2022

Tennessee

Angela Shubert, A 1 Puppy. Morris Chapel, Tennessee. At the time of their April 27, 2022 USDA inspection, Shubert received 3 ‘teachable moments’ that other licensees received violations for. Those teachable moments were pertaining to housing facilities, primary enclosures and veterinary care for dogs. Angela Shubert, 4.27.2022

Paws of Dale Hollow. Byrdstown, Tennessee- At the time of their April 25, 2022 USDA inspection, Paws of Dale Hollow received 3 violations pertaining to attending veterinarian and adequate veterinary care, time and method of identification and housing facilities. Paws of Dale Hollow. 4.25.2022

Virginia

Carla McNeal. Riner, Virginia- On April 4, 2022 a USDA inspection was conducted and determined that McNeal was participating in AWA regulated activity without a brokering license. Carla McNeal 4.4.2022

Washington

Traipse Bengals. Issaquah, Washington- At the time of their May 24, 2022 USDA inspection, Traipse received 1 violation pertaining to cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Traipse Bengals 5.24.2022

Wisconsin

Abner Renno and Mary Renno. Platteville, Wisconsin- At the time of their May 3, 2022 USDA inspection, Renno received 3 violations pertaining to time and method of identification and records. Abner Renno 5.3.2022

Joseph Borkholder. Hillsboro, Wisconsin- At the time of their April 4, 2022 USDA inspection, Borkholder received 2 violations pertaining to primary enclosures. Joseph Borkholder 4.4.2022

Joseph Schrock. Cadott, Wisconsin- At the time of their April 12, 2022 USDA inspection, Schrock received 2 violations pertaining to time and method of identification. Joseph Schrock 4.12.2022

Junior Yutzy. Hillsboro, Wisconsin- At the time of their April 28, 2022 USDA inspection, Yutzy received 6 violations pertaining to time and method of identification, records, housing facilities, primary enclosures and cleaning, sanitization, housekeeping, and pest control. Junior Yutzy 4.28.2022

Linda Swarr, Joy Kennels. Curtiss, Wisconsin- At the time of their April 12, 2022 USDA inspection, Swarr received 1 violation pertaining to time and method of identification. Linda Swarr 4.12.2022

Ralph Martin. Thorp, Wisconsin- At the time of their June 21, 2022 USDA inspection, Martin received 2 violations pertaining to sheltered housing facilities and veterinary care for dogs. Ralph Martin 6.21.2022

Timothy Schwartz, Dilly Ridge Dogs. Hillsboro, Wisconsin- Schwartz also received violations in Quarter 1 of 2022. At the time of their April 29, 2022 USDA inspection, Schwartz received 1 violation pertaining to watering. Timothy Schwartz 4.29.2022

 

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Meet the Survivors: Buck

Written by Becky Monroe

Meet Buck

 

“Many people said I wouldn’t find a purebred Poodle in a shelter,” began Katie’s interview about Buck…but with her strong desire and due diligence to find a large, non-shedding, intelligent and easy-going dog, she actually came across quite a few in need of homes.

There was a shelter in her area  that did a lot of work with breeder released dogs. She found “Uriah” listed on the site with a very vague description and no picture. It read simply, “Neutered male standard Poodle. Has done well with other dogs in the shelter.”

Taking a chance, Katie and her fiancé (now husband) applied for the dog. They were approved and went to the shelter a few days later with their 12 year old terrier mix, Toby.

They were so pleasantly surprised when the staff brought out this gorgeous, chocolate standard Poodle!

However, Uriah was absolutely terrified of being outside in the fenced area. When they tried to approach him, he ran circles on his leash and did everything he could to get away.

They waited patiently and eventually he became calm enough to pet.

Katie added, “He looked so defeated.”

While they realized quickly Uriah would be a bigger project than they had planned, they still decided he was the dog for them.

They adopted him and took him home and re-named him Buck.

Buck and Toby

“The first week was the hardest,” Katie described. “ Everything was difficult and I started questioning if I had made the right decision in adopting such a traumatized dog.”

At 3 years of age, Buck was not house trained at all. He was terrified to be touched. He didn’t do steps. He couldn’t walk on a leash and only wanted to lay in the back corner of his kennel and pretend he was invisible.

Buck was broken. He had no personality and as Katie expressed, “Sadly, he didn’t enjoy existing.”

The biggest helper became Toby. Almost instantly, Buck became glued to Toby.

“We joked that Toby was Buck’s emotional support animal,” Katie shared.

In most cases, puppy mill survivors do best when paired with a confident, outgoing well-adjusted dog. After all they have been through, the one thing they seem to trust is their own kind.

With Toby by his side, they started to see that Buck actually craved attention and human contact but was too scared to approach people. They also realized he was very motivated by food.

Buck was only 58 pounds when they adopted him and now 3 years later, he weighs a healthy 74 pounds. 

Katie had a friend, Heather, who lived nearby who had a rescued Doberman named Zoe. Zoe was confident and easy-going. Heather was into rehabilitating dogs and became the perfect partner to help get Buck out of his shell.

They started taking group walks everyday and soon those walks were the highlight of Buck’s new life.

He slowly gained confidence and started learning that new experiences were fun and nothing to be scared of.

Katie worked at a vet clinic on weekends and always brought Toby along. As Buck became more trusting, she started taking Buck.

He would sit behind the reception counter and every time someone asked to pet him, Katie would educate them on Buck’s past, ask them to give him a treat first and then let him lead the situation.

It didn’t take too many weekends at the vet clinic until Buck decided all people were fantastic and he started confidently approaching strangers expecting to be pet.

“Saturday mornings became much more exciting when I said the words,’Who is ready to go to work?’ and watched Buck run to the door with excitement,” Katie described.

How far Buck came when only months before he had no interest in life at all.

Katie explained that clients at work would always compliment her on how well-behaved her dogs were and how beautiful Buck was. Katie always took the opportunity to educate them about Buck’s past and encouraged them to look at shelters first when looking for their next pet. 

Katie’s experience with Buck led her down a new path. She was so amazed at his transformation in six months that she wanted to get more involved with puppy mill survivor rehabilitation and help another dog find a perfect home.

She became a regular volunteer at the shelter where Buck came from and took home a 3 year old, 4 pound Maltese who had only been used for breeding.

The Maltese was shy, but adapted to normal life much quicker than Buck and in just one month was potty-trained, confident and ready for her happily ever after.

Since Buck came into her life, Katie has become an advocate for stricter breeding laws, ending puppy mills and adopting from shelters.

After submitting information for this interview, Katie became a volunteer with Bailing Out Benji and is doing events to help educate others on puppy mills with Buck by her side.

Katie has fostered two pups from other organizations, both of whom Buck helped to potty train and teach manners.

Not only have they fostered new pups, they adopted another puppy mill survivor, a cream Poodle named Bodi. Buck was eager to show him how walks can be fun and not scary as well as how to go up and down stairs.

Buck’s life has been forever changed by Katie and her family. He is happy and well-adjusted and the best mentor for all the dogs in need they bring into their home.

Thanks Buck for taking so many other pups under your wing and teaching them how great second chances are and thank you for bringing Katie to Bailing Out Benji!! 

**Just a reminder – if you would like to share your Puppy Mill Survivor’s story with our supporters, I would love to publish it on Tails and Truths! Just email me at bmonroe@bailingoutbenji.com.**