Adoption Plans Announced for Alleged Puppy Mill Spaniels

ATLANTA - A group of about 20 dogs seized from an alleged puppy mill will be up for adoption this weekend.

The Atlanta Humane Society took 36 Boykin Spaniels into their care Friday after the Georgia Department of Agriculture served a seizure warrant on a dog breeder in Stephens County.

"No one deserves that kind of treatment," said Meredith Millwood, director of communications and public relations for the shelter.  "The conditions were pretty rough.  The animals didn't have very much shelter outside.  So, they were really exposed to the elements."

That, according to Millwood, led to 13 of the dogs contracting heartworms. Those dogs will be placed in foster homes for long-term care.

The other dogs had minor health issues including ear infections or eye infections. Many of those animals will be ready for adoption this weekend.  The dogs range in age from six months to twelve years.

"Some of them are seniors and have had no house training, very little socialization and they're going to need a patient person. They're going to need someone that is willing to teach them the rules of the house and be patient with them as they learn them," said Millwood.

The Humane Society said volunteers and employees have taken care of most of the dogs' needs, but some were heavily matted and they hope a professional groomer might donate his or her time to help.

"These dogs are dogs that need to be groomed regularly and they haven't received that," Millwood explained.

Some of the dogs will be available for adoption Saturday at the Atlanta Humane Society facility located at 981 Howell Mill Road NW in Atlanta.  Others will be available Sunday at the campus located 1656 Mansell Road in Alpharetta. Both facilities open their doors at 11:00 a.m. and adoptions are first come, first served.

Anyone who wishes to adopt a dog must bring a valid photo ID. Families with children or other dogs should bring them to meet their potential new pet.