Missouri wins (loses) again: No. 1 state for puppy mills in 'Horrible Hundred'

Annual Humane Society list put 21 of the nation's top 100 offenders in Missouri.
For the 9th year, the most "Horrible 100" puppy mills are in Missouri.
Missouri continues to have a puppy mill problem, says HSUS. Photo credit (Photos by Mo. Dept of Ag)

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KMOX) - The annual "Horrible Hundred" report from the Humane Society of the United States finds Missouri has more problematic puppy mills than any other state. Missouri took the top spot for the ninth year in a row.

On this year's list, 21 dog breeders are listed, compared to 30 problematic puppy breeding and/or puppy brokering facilities listed last year.

Here's the full 2021 report:

The next-most offenders were in Ohio and Iowa, each with 16 and 11 problematic facilities listed. Illinois had only four dealers listed.

Most of the offenses are dogs living in filthy conditions, in cages unprotected from the elements, and malnourished animals. In some cases, breeders have been recently granted licensing from the Missouri Department of Agriculture, but previously had their USDA license revoked.

The difference this year, as compared to previous years topping the list, is the inspection of dog breeders has been greatly reduced due to the pandemic.

The report has in-depth reports on each of the 21 dog breeders in Missouri - and all other states - listed in their "Horrible Hundred."

Some of the worst offenders in Missouri include:

Deanna Brundage in Mercer, Mo.
"Breeder whose USDA license was revoked in 2008 due to dead dogs and puppies, emaciated dogs, seven dogs who were shot in the head, and other horrors, obtained a new state license in November 2020 even after being found again with poor conditions."

Sally L. Culver / Culver Lane Kennel in Hartville, Mo.
"Failed to let USDA inspectors in for inspection in October 2020 after a prior visit found an underweight dog whose “ribs, backbone and hips were easily seen;” and puppies who were shivering in the bitter cold."

Sandra Kozlowski / Sho Me Labradors, St. James, Mo.
"Breeder who was sued by the state and surrendered 83 dogs due to egregious conditions was given a new state license in 2020 but continued to be found with poor conditions in 2021; one dog had blood on his face and others were found in deficient housing (repeat offender)."

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Featured Image Photo Credit: (Photos by Mo. Dept of Ag)