Puppy mill busted in Arcadia, 66 dogs rescued

ARCADIA, Fla.- More than 60 Great Danes and other dogs were rescued from a puppy mill in DeSoto County.

The dogs were in such deplorable conditions, the owner of the kennel, Debora Rivera, is under arrest.

The dogs were kept at Remington Danes on Southeast Jeans Road.

A tipster actually called into Animal Services and the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office.

In the report, deputies say it’s the worst case of neglect they’ve ever seen.

Deputies say they animals were covered in fleas and ticks and there were feces everywhere. The dogs were malnourished and dehydrated and the female dogs were over-bred.

Authorities rescued 47 dogs and 13 puppies. One of the dogs gave birth to an additional six puppies, totaling 66 dogs that were taken from the breeder.

DeSoto County investigators say conditions were so filthy they had to wear suits and masks.

In the arrest report, one investigator says “The amount of encrusted dirt on the walls, light fixtures and anything inside the house is the worst I have ever seen.”

Officials arrested Rivera for aggravated animal neglect and marijuana possession.

If you would like to adopt one of the dogs, contact DeSoto County Animal Services at 863-993-4855 or the Southwest Great Dane Rescue at 813-689-2485.

Trust WINK News to continue to follow this story.