Thirty dogs were removed from a Hernando County property on March 7 after authorities discovered poor living conditions and signs of neglect.
According to the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, an Animal Enforcement Officer (AEO), along with patrol deputies and forensic specialists, executed an inspection warrant at a residence on Margot Road in northwest Hernando County following reports of suspected animal neglect.
The property, owned by Jose Gonzalez-Cruz, was home to 30 dogs, all of which were found without proper shelter. Twenty-two of the dogs either had no water, no access to water, or only had access to non-potable water. Some water buckets were contaminated with mold and dead lizards.
Nine dogs were classified as underweight, with visible ribs and hip bones. Six dogs had open sores and bleeding wounds. Several dogs were confined to crates that were too small, with no proper flooring — only open wires touching the ground.
Four dogs were found on the front porch and another four on the back porch. Both porches were rotting, with holes in the wood. Several dogs had no access to dry ground, and the bottom of the kennels was covered in mud mixed with feces and urine. The AEO noted that the smell coming from the area was overpowering.
Despite the conditions, the AEO reported that all the dogs, which were bulldog mixes, appeared friendly toward people.
Due to the observed conditions, Gonzalez-Cruz was issued a citation for animal mistreatment. All 30 dogs were impounded and transported to Hernando County Animal Services.
Gonzalez-Cruz’s next court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday, May 7. The dogs will remain at the shelter until a judge determines whether they should be returned to Gonzalez-Cruz or become the property of Animal Services.
