Forty-four small dogs and a cat removed earlier this month from a home in Crane have been legally signed over to the Humane Society of Missouri, as the Stone County prosecuting attorney’s office continues its review to determine whether criminal charges will be filed.  Prosecutor Matt Selby says a hearing on disposition of the animals was held Friday…

Matt Selby 2012A230    

Animal health officers working with the Stone County Sheriff’s Office and the Humane Society of Missouri removed small pugs, chihuahuas, shih tzus and poodles from the home on January 17.  Selby says a number of the animals were somewhat malnourished, but none had serious illnesses or injuries.  At the time the animals were removed, information from the Missouri Department of Agriculture indicated that numerous animal welfare issues had been identified, including unsanitary conditions, and animals in need of veterinary care.

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The Stone County prosecutor’s office continues a review of the case involving the removal earlier this month of dozens of animals from a home in Crane.  Forty-four small dogs and a cat seized from the home January 17 were officially signed over Friday to the Humane Society of Missouri. Stone County prosecutor Matt Selby says the animals were somewhat malnourished, but no serious illnesses or injuries were evident…

Matt Selby 2012A231   

Selby says last Friday’s hearing before a judge is among the requirements to insure that the animals were properly seized.  During that proceeding, the homeowner agreed to transfer ownership of all of the animals over to the Humane Society of Missouri.