Missouri Attorney General Files Lawsuits Against Two Animal Care Operators for Welfare Violations

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Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, working in coordination with the Missouri Department of Agriculture, announced lawsuits against two animal care operators for repeated violations of state animal welfare laws, ago.mo.gov and einnews.com reported. The legal actions aim to halt ongoing mistreatment, enforce compliance with licensing and inspection rules, and protect animals across the state. Hanaway stated that the state holds a responsibility to act when care standards are ignored and animals face unacceptable conditions.

Rocky Top K9 Violations in Howell County

In Howell County, operator Ellen Roberts of Rocky Top K9 in West Plains racked up multiple violations during inspections conducted in December 2025 and April 2026. Inspectors documented overcrowded enclosures alongside structural defects that allowed dogs to escape or climb into adjacent pens. Officials also discovered widespread pest activity, which included insects, rodent feces, and a live mouse. Roberts repeatedly refused mandatory inspections, failed to make the facility available, and ignored notices requesting scheduled inspection times.

The Attorney General’s Office is pursuing a permanent injunction to prohibit future violations at the West Plains property. Prosecutors also want civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation, unrestricted inspection access, and mandatory corrective actions to fix all documented facility deficiencies.

Expired Licensing and Refused Inspections at The Dog House on Apple Road

In Jasper County, operator Deana Brown of The Dog House on Apple Road, LLC in Carthage continued running a boarding kennel after her license expired on January 31, 2025, and again on January 31, 2026. Inspectors found more than two dozen dogs boarded at the facility on two separate occasions despite the lack of a valid license. Investigators also spotted active advertising for boarding services on the property and along Highway 59. When inspectors arrived for required annual checks, Brown told the inspector to leave immediately and stated she would block all future visits.

The Jasper County Circuit Court already entered a default judgment against Brown after she failed to appear in court. The court confirmed violations of state licensing and inspection mandates and granted permanent injunctive relief. The Attorney General’s Office is seeking additional civil penalties, inspection authority, and a permanent injunction that blocks Brown from accepting payment for boarding services unless she secures proper licensing.

Missouri Officials Urge Residents to Report Animal Care Concerns

The Missouri Attorney General’s Office and the Missouri Department of Agriculture stated they will maintain strict enforcement of state animal welfare statutes. State officials urged residents to report concerns regarding animal care facilities by submitting a complaint directly through the official website at ago.mo.gov.