Over 400 Dogs Trapped in “Filth” Rescued from Puppy Mill in Heartbreaking Operation

A suspected puppy mill in Stroud, Oklahoma has been shut down, and more than 400 dogs are finally getting the second chance they deserve. The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office announced the closure following the rescue of over 405 dogs found living in deplorable conditions at a facility owned by 83-year-old Jerry Hine, who operated under the name Add Love Pets.

According to authorities, the scene was heartbreaking. Many of the dogs were discovered crammed into small cages, stacked on top of one another, their fur matted with feces. The air was thick with ammonia, and the conditions were described as some of the worst responders had ever seen. “Some of their skin was starting to separate from their bodies,” Stroud Police Chief Clint Gaylord said, underscoring the severity of the neglect.

The facility’s license had expired in June, and during its last inspection in December, it was reported to house about 180 dogs. However, when law enforcement intervened, they found more than twice that number. The discrepancy raised serious concerns about the true scale of the operation and the level of suffering endured by the animals.

Hine has been arrested and faces multiple counts of animal cruelty. Meanwhile, the dogs have been sent to several animal care organizations including the Tulsa Humane Society, Skiatook Paws & Claws Animal Rescue, Oklahoma Alliance for Animals, and Oklahoma Westie Rescue. These groups are working tirelessly to provide medical exams, document the conditions for investigators, and begin the long process of physical and emotional rehabilitation for the dogs.

Amber Ridenour of Skiatook Paws & Claws, which took in about 35 of the rescued dogs, said the team is already beginning to relieve the animals of the pain caused by matting and waste caked onto their skin. “They’re on their way to their happy ending,” said Lawrence DePriest from the Humane Society of Tulsa. “They’re a lot closer than they were yesterday.”

This rescue effort stands as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when law enforcement and compassionate communities work together to protect those who cannot speak for themselves.

Click the video below to watch the full story:

Click ‘SHARE’ below to pass it on to a friend or family member!

This content was created with AI assistance and edited by the iHeartDogs team.