Dogs and puppies seized from hoarding/unauthorized breeding operation; fosters and donations needed

BLOOMINGTON – On Friday, March 17, the City of Bloomington Animal Care and Control (BACC) seized 68 dogs and puppies from a hoarding/unauthorized breeding operation. These animals were taken with the assistance of the Bloomington Police Department (BPD) and the Animal Management Officers from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department.

Community members can assist by providing short-term foster care for shelter dogs that have been in the care of the animal shelter. Staff will provide on-the-spot foster approval, and fosters will be asked to provide temporary housing for 1-2 weeks. To learn more about the foster program or complete an online application, visit bloomington.in.gov/animal-shelter/foster.

The shelter will be waiving fees for all adoptable dogs over six months of age on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Fees will be waived for dogs that were already available for adoption prior to the seizure.

Bedding or monetary donations are also needed at this time. Bedding can be dropped off in the white bin outside the front doors of the Bloomington Animal Shelter at 3410 S Walnut St. at any time. Monetary donations are accepted Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 12-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 12-3 p.m. Please get in touch with BACC at 812-349-3492 with any questions regarding donations. 

Animal Shelter Director Virgil Sauder

“The Bloomington Animal Shelter is grateful to BPD and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department for their assistance in removing the animals,” said Animal Shelter Director Virgil Sauder.  “We would also like to thank our dedicated fosters and volunteers for their hard work and community commitment. We look forward to welcoming new fosters into the program.” 

The Monroe County Humane Association and Brown County Humane Society are both assisting with housing the dogs and puppies. You can learn more about these organizations, their services, and means of contact at the following: