All Things Dog - December 8, 2008

The Trib reported two weeks ago that 123 animals taken from a Lakeland home are being evaluated for health issues. The dogs suffer from ear infections, skin conditions, whipworms, and mouth and gum problems. Carolyn Bragg was charged with 123 counts of animal neglect and one count of offering dogs for sale without a health certificate, after the animals were rescued from her house. Bragg's daughter, Sue-Ann Goodman was charged with tampering with evidence. The State department of Children and Families also took custody of her 12 year old daughter. Most of the dogs seized were Pomeranians, Yorkshire Terriers, Dachshunds, and Pugs, but there was also a litter of Golden Retriever pups. They will be offered for adoption as soon as they as the county is granted legal ownership.

This is the time of year when cute-as-a-button pups are being pushed as the perfect gift for your loved one. They're sold at pet stores, through breeders and in the newspaper. Lately, I see more and more roadside signs advertising purebred puppies. Florida state law mandates that dogs offered for sale must be at least 8 weeks of age and accompanied by a health certificate that is no more than 30 days old. For more information about Florida's Pet Law or to report disreputable dealers, go to the state Division of Animal Industry website.