BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — Seven dogs, including puppies, were found in a locked self-storage unit are in fairly decent condition, according to the veterinarian who examined them.
The veterinarian does not believe the dogs had been abandoned for an extended period of time, based on their conditions, according to the Hernando County Sheriff's Office.
An anonymous caller called the sheriff's office Tuesday morning and said there were animals being kept in a self-storage facility in the area of Hale Avenue and Dr. MLK Jr. Boulevard, according to a news release.
Law enforcement dispatched an animal enforcement officer, who found the unit and heard a bunch of barking dogs.
Deputies say the officer saw a large padlock securing the door and called for bolt cutters to break through. Once inside, seven dogs were found, including a white dog tethered to a very short leash next to a bowl of water.
The owner of the storage facility is not facing any charges. He has been cooperative, investigators said.
The owner of the facility said the unit was not currently under contract with anyone.
Animals found locked inside self-storage facility in Hernando County
Two Chihuahuas were in a metal crate situated on top of another crate. Neither had food or water. In the second crate, deputies found a mother dog and three puppies, likely between the ages of 6 and 8 weeks old, the sheriff's office said. They, too, had no access to food or water.
The officer noted no ventilation for the animals in the storage unit.
If you have information and would like to remain anonymous, please call Hernando County Crime Stoppers at 1-866-990-TIPS (8477).
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