Breeder faces 74 counts of animal cruelty

ATLANTA, Ga. -- Over 60 dogs are making their way to the Atlanta Humane Society after a puppy mill bust in the Macon area of Georgia.

Officials with the Atlanta Humane Society issued a statement that 62 of 74 small breed dogs seized from a licensed breeder in Bibb County, Ga., will soon be going up for adoption.

The seizure warrant was issued on Sept. 4 and the breeder faces 74 counts of animal cruelty, with authorities citing inhumane conditions, prolonged suffering, unsanitary conditions and improper housing. The breeder, who has not been identified, relinquished custody on Friday.

Humane society officials said that the dogs have little to no medical care and that many suffer from eye and ear infections. Several dogs are also blind – something society officials said is not uncommon for puppy mill rescues.

Breeds rescued include miniature poodles, cockapoos, schnauzers, Bichon-poos and schnoodle mixes.

The society is asking for professional groomers to donate their time and services if possible due to the grooming requirements for many of the breeds.

The dogs should arrive in the Atlanta area on Saturday and will be ready for adoption in the coming weeks from the Mansell Campus in Alpharetta, Ga.