Posted at 4:18 p.m., Wednesday, May 7, 2003
Officials investigate Hawai'i Kai 'puppy mill'
Advertiser Staff
Hawaiian Humane Society officials today are investigating a possible animal cruelty case after more than two dozen dogs were found living in squalor in a Hawai'i Kai townhouse.Humane Society field services manager Bryan Windisch said it appeared to be a "puppy mill" in which Chihuahuas, Pomerianians, poodles and other small breeds are being bred for sale.
Officials discovered the animals after firefighters responded to an 11 a.m. alarm at the Villa Marina townhouse on Kawaihae Place. The small fire was confined to a kitchen and caused little damage, fire Capt. Kenison Tejada said.
A strong smell came out of the apartment. Windisch said 27 dogs and one cat were removed. Feces and trash were all over the home. Some animals were in cages, while others roamed freely.
No one was home at the time of the fire. Officials were trying to contact the owner.
