30 Dogs Rescued from North Minneapolis 'Backyard Breeder'

MINNEAPOLIS - Minneapolis Animal Care and Control rescued 30 dogs Tuesday after executing a search warrant a home on the city's north side.

A search warrant on suspicion of animal cruelty was executed at 2958 Logan Ave. N. at the home of a suspected "backyard breeder," meaning the person was breeding dogs for profit.

The dogs confiscated were all of the Shih Tzu breed. Many of the dogs had signs of physical and health problems, including a broken jaw, skin conditions, dental disease, eye problems and feces matted in their fur, as well as poor socialization.

Minneapolis Animal Control is investigating the incident and providing the animals with veterinary care. Possible criminal charges could include cruelty to animals and a violation of the maximum number of animals permitted in a home.

The dogs are currently being held at Minneapolis Animal Control while the investigation continues. When appropriate, Animal Control will work to find quality homes for all healthy, non-aggressive dogs.