Police Seize 43 Puppies Transported From Iowa Puppy Mill

By Samantha Abernethy in News on Feb 8, 2012 10:20PM

Police found 43 puppies packed in a van on the West Side of Chicago, and it led to the arrest of two men who were transporting them from a puppy mill in Iowa to pet stores in Chicago and New York City. The puppies were packed three-to-six in a carrier without adequate food or water. The Chicago Tribune writes:

The puppies, some as young as 6 to 8 weeks, vary in breed from boxers and huskies to Chihuahuas and Pekinese, said Cherie Travis, executive director of Chicago’s Department of Animal Care and Control. She said they came from a large-scale breeding operation in Iowa.

Police heard barking coming from the van where they had found two men sleeping. Travis Wester, 22, and Larry Subject, 49, both of Iowa, were arrested and charged with misdemeanor failing to meet animal owner duties and cruelty to animals. Both are being held, awaiting a hearing in front of a Cook County judge.

Police wouldn't comment on the puppies' condition, but the puppy mill in Iowa is about seven hours away, meaning the puppies had been in there for at least that long. The puppies will not be available for adoption until court proceedings have been completed. Until then, the puppies are with Animal Care & Control. Donations can be delivered to 2741 S. Western Ave.