A Franklin County Circuit Court judge awarded the Humane Society of Missouri (HSMO) custody of 55 dogs. The dogs were rescued last month from a substandard breeder in the county and were mostly Basset Hound and Basset mixes. They are currently being provided veterinary and shelter care in St. Louis.

The dogs were removed from the suspected breeder in early October at the request of the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. They were found in varying stages of malnutrition and filth. Many were housed in crates and sitting in their own feces and urine.

The dogs will be available for adoption individually. Some require continuing veterinary care and some need additional socialization. All the dogs will be spayed or neutered prior to adoption. HSMO will work not only with individual adopters, but also with foster families and special rescue groups to ensure appropriate placement of these dogs.

“We thank the judge for considering the welfare and best interests of these dog by awarding custody to the HSMO” said Kathy Warnick, president of the organization.