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In a disturbing discovery out of Rogers County, Oklahoma, deputies rescued a staggering 148 dogs from an illegal breeding operation spanning two locations—Claremore and Oologah. The dogs, crammed into cages and suffering from neglect, were found with little to no food or proper care.
According to authorities, 100 of the dogs were discovered at the Oologah property and another 48 at a residence in Claremore. Deputies arrived with search warrants in hand, acting on a long string of complaints and tips from concerned locals. What they found was worse than expected—rows of filthy cages stacked in deplorable conditions and dogs desperately clinging to survival.
One such concerned neighbor, Roma Ramthun, has been raising red flags about the property near her Claremore home for years. “You can’t treat them like they’re just an object because they’re living beings and need so much from us,” Ramthun told reporters. “It’s a terrible thing.”
As a lifelong dog lover, Ramthun described how disheartened and frustrated she was to learn that her worst fears had been validated. “I can’t understand why people would treat dogs like they’re a crop,” she added, heartbroken.
Sheriff Scott Walton of Rogers County didn’t hold back in condemning the operation. “I don’t think it’s an example of agriculture in any way, shape, or form,” he said. “This is some sick-minded people that found a way to make some money.”
The sheriff confirmed that at least one suspect had been identified and that deputies were actively searching for another. He also revealed that the investigation had led them to a third location that may hold even more dogs in similar conditions, although the whereabouts of that site were not disclosed to the public at the time.
The rescue mission, which unfolded on June 23, was a coordinated effort between the Rogers County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Department of Agriculture, and the Humane Society of Tulsa. The combined teams worked tirelessly to remove the dogs from the dangerous environment and begin the process of treating them.
“It’s something the neighborhood has been against for a very long time,” Ramthun said. “We’re going to be grateful as a group to put an end to this.”
Images from the scene showed terrified dogs huddled in rusted cages, their fur matted and their eyes filled with confusion and fear. Many were clearly malnourished and suffering from untreated medical issues. Volunteers and animal control officers were seen carrying dogs to safety, some using gloves and protective gear to navigate the filthy and hazardous surroundings.
At the Humane Society of Tulsa, medical staff began assessing the rescued animals. Initial reports indicated that while some dogs were in critical condition, most were stable and would soon be available for adoption after rehabilitation.
This rescue brings to light a grim reality that still exists across the United States—unregulated and abusive breeding operations that prioritize profit over life. Often referred to as “puppy mills,” these illegal operations are known for cutting corners and keeping animals in inhumane conditions to maximize their bottom line.
Animal welfare groups have long been fighting to shut down such facilities, advocating for stricter laws, better enforcement, and more public awareness. Many states have passed legislation aimed at regulating breeders, but enforcement remains a challenge—especially in rural areas where operations can go undetected for years.
Sheriff Walton emphasized the importance of community involvement in addressing these issues. “Without the neighbors speaking up and being persistent, we might not have gotten here,” he said.
Now, the focus shifts to the welfare of the rescued dogs. Shelters and rescues across Oklahoma are stepping up to provide temporary housing, medical treatment, and eventually, loving forever homes. Many of the dogs are expected to be up for adoption in the coming weeks.
“We’ll do everything we can to make sure these dogs know kindness,” one shelter volunteer said.
While justice for the perpetrators is still pending, the rescue serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of vigilance and compassion. The hope is that through continued advocacy and action, fewer animals will ever have to endure what these 148 dogs experienced.
Anyone with information about the case or who sees suspicious listings of similar dogs for sale online is urged to contact the Rogers County Sheriff’s Office or the Humane Society of Tulsa.
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This content was created with AI assistance and edited by the iHeartDogs team.
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