By Robert Barron Staff Writer
Dogs rescued from an alleged puppy mill in Woods County late last year are available for adoption at Enid Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
“We finally got the Woods County district attorney to get us a release to adopt the dogs out,” said Gabriella Wilson, of Enid SPCA. “We have permission to place the animals.”
Waggin’ Tails Rescue was raided Dec. 17, and 59 dogs were found living in four open stock trailers. Eleven of the sickest dogs were taken to Enid SPCA. The bodies of other dogs were found at the location, Wilson said.
Brian Mitchell, assistant Woods County district attorney, said Elizabeth A. Miller and Anna Wheatley are charged jointly as co-owners of Waggin’ Tails. They are charged with six counts of felony animal cruelty.
“We’re in the process of releasing the animals,” Mitchell said.
There is no date set for a preliminary hearing, but Miller has made an initial appearance and a number of docket appearances.
“We let them know in no uncertain terms we won’t allow them to bargain that down to a misdemeanor and let this woman off with nothing,” Wilson said.
Enid SPCA has provided care for the dogs since they were rescued. Some are available in foster homes, and the rest are in the facility on Overland Trail.
Among the dogs are a purebred Irish setter, a chocolate brown lab and a couple of Jack Russell terriers.
“The chocolate lab that was in the paper that was in such poor condition, you should see it now,” Wilson said.
Wilson said the dogs are in “great” condition now.
“They have been spayed, neutered, given lots of antibiotics, good high-quality food and lots of love,” she said.
The biggest difference is in the animals’ personalities. Wilson said many of the dogs had no human contact and were barely sociable. Since being at Enid SPCA, she said, they have received daily human contact, and their personalities have changed dramatically.
The case is being closely watched by National Humane Society and People for Ethical Treatment of Animals.
