MEADE COUNTY, S.D. – On Friday, March 22nd, the Meade County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) responded to a report of animal abuse near North Haines Ave, involving multiple dogs. Upon investigation, it was discovered that 15 dogs were in distress, with some confined to a horse trailer and others in small enclosures. Several dogs were visibly malnourished. Subsequently, the MCSO seized the dogs, and the owners were arrested on charges of Animal Neglect. The names of the arrested individuals are not disclosed as the case remains under investigation.
Due to capacity limitations, the Sturgis Animal Shelter could only accommodate five of the seized dogs. Several local shelters were contacted, but none had available space. The Battle Mountain Humane Society in Hot Springs, SD, agreed to accept the animals, including a pregnant female expected to deliver puppies soon.
Efforts have been made to ensure the dogs receive necessary veterinary care, with coordination between Battle Mountain and the Sturgis Animal Shelter. However, both facilities are now operating at or beyond capacity due to these seizures.
The MCSO expressed gratitude to the staff at Battle Mountain and the Sturgis Animal Shelter for their assistance in caring for the animals.
