At the request of the Guilford County Sheriff's Office, we are assisting the Sheriff’s Office and Guilford County Animal Services with the removal of 15 dogs and puppies from a property in Guilford County, North Carolina, that housed an alleged dog-breeding operation with suspected connections to animal fighting.

We are assisting with operational planning and removal, evidence collection, legal and investigative assistance, forensics exams and medical and behavioral care for the animals. We are also providing support to ensure the best legal outcome for these animals. If any criminal charges result from this case, they will be handled by the Guilford County District Attorney’s Office.

“Collaborating with local law enforcement agencies and animal welfare professionals in situations of suspected animal cruelty is key in saving more animal lives across the country,” said Teresa Ladner, Senior Director of Investigations for the ASPCA Legal Advocacy & Investigations Team. “The ASPCA is proud to work alongside the Guilford County Sherriff’s Office and Guilford County Animal Services to bring these animals to safety and provide them with medical and behavioral care.”

The dogs are being relocated to an emergency shelter operated by ASPCA teams to receive medical and behavioral evaluations, care and enrichment until custody is determined by the court.