GULFPORT, Miss. (AP) - A Gulfport man has been charged after police say nearly 30 Yorkshire terrier dogs were removed from his home.
Gulfport police arrested 59-year-old James Wright on Tuesday, according to news media outlets. Wright is charged with multiple crimes, including failing to provide rabies vaccinations to the animals and keeping too many animals in the house, among other offenses.
Police began investigating the case in March, when an animal control officer was notified of poor conditions at the house, according to a news release.
Police advised Wright to reduce the number of animals on his property, the release said. Wright failed to do so, and a search warrant was executed Tuesday.
Officers found 28 Yorkshire terriers, including eight puppies, one Labrador mix and a cockatoo.
Staff from the Humane Society of South Mississippi helped remove the animals Tuesday, which were housed in “a non-conducive environment and bred for profit,” according to the news release.
The Humane Society has set up a temporary emergency shelter for the dogs. The animals will receive veterinary exams, flea treatment, vaccinations, grooming, dental work and individualized attention.
“Because these dogs came from special circumstances, HSSM staff plans to spend extra time evaluating their health status, temperaments, and individual qualities before placing them up for adoption,” the Humane Society said in the release.
The news reports said it was unclear whether Wright has an attorney.
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