Sunday, November 15, 2009

100+ animal seized from Lone Star Miniature Pinscher Rescue

By: Rebecca Poling

Dallas Animal Services yesterday seized approximately 100 animals from Lone Star Miniature Pinscher Rescue in Deep Ellum. City of Dallas Code Compliance officials indicated the animals had been kept confined in unsanitary conditions in spaces smaller than allowable under city code and may not have had access to water. Neighbors told reporters on the scene that they had known for a while that something was wrong, but most seemed to have no idea how many animals were housed there.

There may have been even more things that were not as they seemed. While most rescue groups participate in adoption events nearly every weekend, and during the week as well, according to their website, LSMPR only "occasionally takes part in adoption events". None are listed on the website. The website also states that rather than having their own non-profit status with the IRS, "Lone Star Minature Pinscher Rescue works with "ZAP" a 501c3 organization in the state of Texas."

According to Dallas Central Appraisal District records, the location from which the 98 dogs and 4 cats were seized is a 2,028 square foot Commercial building on Canton Street in Deep Ellum. But the LSMPR website clearly states "The Min Pins are presently in volunteer foster homes until they can find a new family. Please note, this is a mailing address only. We do not have a shelter and you will not be able to see our dogs if you come to this address. The dogs are in foster homes throughout DFW."

There are only 36 min-pins available for adoption from LSMPR's Petfinder site.

The animals seized are currently being cared for at Dallas Animal Services & Adoption Center. A hearing will be held next Wednesday to determine whether the animals will be returned to the rescue group or permanently transferred to Dallas Animal Services..." Link