police: Women ran illegal breeding kennel in Cardale
Over 100 dogs were rescued from a home in Cardale, including 52 mixed breed Chihuahua-type dogs that were part of an illegal breeding kennel, according to court paperwork filed this week.
Tammy Lynn Hott, 47, and Rebecca Heffner, 64, are charged with aggravated cruelty to animals, unlawful operation of a dog kennel, seven counts of cruelty to animals and a total of 160 citations for neglecting to get veterinary care, having unlicensed dogs and not getting rabies vaccines for the animals.
An investigation came about when, on March 20, Redstone Township police were called to their home in the 200 block of Filbert-Orient Road because one dog died after a fight with, which smelled of animal urine.
Two dogs required euthanization, while several others required medical treatment, according to the complaint. Police said the women were allowed to keep three of the dogs, and surrendered the remaining animals.
One day later, a state dog warden came to the home. She alleged that Hott and Heffner were operating an unlicensed breeding kennel that contained an additional 52 mixed breed Chihuahua-type dogs.
The animals were transported to clinics and humane societies located in Butler, Washington and Fayette counties, police said.
A report filed in the complaint noted several other dogs tested positive for Lyme disease, fleas, tapeworms and other partistic diseases.
Both women will face a preliminary hearing next month before District Judge Mike Defino Jr.