In a major animal welfare operation, the Pennsylvania SPCA’s Animal Law Enforcement team has removed nearly 40 animals from a breeder’s property in Union County. The rescue, which took place early Monday morning, followed a tip from the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Dog Law regarding the dire living conditions and lack of veterinary care at the site.
The seizure included a wide range of animals: 16 Great Danes, five French Bulldogs, four English Mastiffs, one Bull Mastiff, 11 cats, and two Nubian goats.
The investigation began when state inspectors visited the property in Mifflinburg and found evidence of systemic neglect. According to the PSPCA, the breeder’s animals were suffering from untreated medical conditions, including:
Severe Malnourishment: Multiple dogs were found thin to emaciated.
Untreated Injuries: Rescuers documented open neck lesions and a large mammary tumor on one canine.
Infections: Many animals displayed painful skin conditions and chronic ear infections.
“It is a heartbreaking scene when animals that are supposed to be cared for by professional breeders are found in this state,” said a PSPCA spokesperson. “Our priority is now their recovery and ensuring they never have to live in these conditions again.”
The animals were signed over to the custody of the Pennsylvania SPCA and transported to Philadelphia for forensic, medical, and behavioral evaluations. Given the scale of the neglect, officials stated that many of the dogs will require weeks of intensive treatment and socialization before they are ready for placement.
Once cleared by medical teams, the animals will be made available for adoption or transferred to approved rescue organizations. The Pennsylvania SPCA is seeking donations to assist with the significant medical costs associated with the recovery of these Great Danes and other rescued animals.
While the investigation is ongoing, animal cruelty charges are expected to be filed based on the forensic evidence gathered at the scene. The Bureau of Dog Law and local law enforcement continue to monitor the property to ensure no other animals remain in danger.
