CLARKESVILLE — Habersham County Animal Care and Control Director Madi Hawkins said no stolen dogs have been identified among the 350 animals rescued over the past few days at a puppy mill in the county.
A Facebook post from a group in Gwinnett County, shared more than 250 times by Saturday night, reports that two stolen dogs were found as part of the operation.
“Dogs with microchips are being found at the Habersham puppy mill,” the post reads. “If you know anyone in/near Habersham who had a small dog lost or stolen, please tell them to get their pets photo and info to those helping the dogs.
“Update: 2 dogs found stolen from five hours away,” the post reads. “All dogs are being scanned, but this will be a time-consuming process.”
Hawkins said that is simply not the case.
“That is not correct information,” Hawkins said. “I am not sure who is spreading that rumor, but none of these animals are stolen dogs.”
Similarly, a Facebook post purporting to be a statewide group urges anyone missing a dog to visit Habersham County Animal Control “to view the dogs that were seized. We have heard multiple chipped dogs, even fixed, found there. Please don’t call as they are swamped. It’s a nice day to drive up and look.”
Hawkins said the last thing officials can allow right now is a flurry of people walking through the temporary emergency shelter where veterinarians and approved volunteers and groups are taking care of animals.
“Encouraging people to show up at the scene, which is clearly described as an ‘undisclosed’ location, is only going to hurt the situation,” Hawkins said. “We will have to deny volunteers access due to irresponsible rumors. Meaning, the animals will be affected.”
Further, Hawkins said the rumors could have negative impact on the animals they are trying to help.
“False information such as this hurts the integrity of our investigation, and will not be tolerated,” Hawkins said. “We are dedicated to seeing this case through and greatly appreciate the respect to do so.”
Hawkins provided some accurate information about what is needed.
“We can definitely take monetary donations,” Hawkins said. Those donations will help with shelter operations and other expenses, such as supplies and veterinary care.
While online donations to the Humane Society of the United States will help with HSUS expenses and supplies while that organization is assisting in the county, it will not offset local expenses associated with the operation.
“We have used massive, massive amounts of overtime,” Hawkins said. “People may say that’s a county budget issue, but it’s an issue for our department. We literally worked around the clock for three days.”
Hawkins said the 350-animal number initially reported is increasing daily.
“Our count is rising because things are giving birth,” Hawkins said.
On Saturday, volunteer groomers worked to take care of matting problems on some of the animals.
“We’re still completing veterinary exams,” Hawkins said.
More information about the needs of the animals and ways to help offset the local costs of the operation will be forthcoming, according to Hawkins.
