The 17 canines rescued Wednesday in Hartford remain safe and secure at this time.
That’s according to Guardians of the Wolves founder and CEO Lori Wynn who tells KVOE News the animals are currently safe at an undisclosed “natural habitat.” Wynn did say that they are currently obtaining veterinary care as some of the dogs are “sick,” however, the severity of their illnesses has not been disclosed.
The animals were rescued from a home in Hartford after Lyon County Deputies and Lyon County Animal control served an order issued by Hartford Municipal Court at 303 East Grand in Hartford on Wednesday. The order was to take several dogs living at the residence for nuisance issues and also a concern about an unauthorized kennel or the number of animals allowed in a home. The dogs’ living conditions were determined to be unacceptable once deputies made contact.
Search warrants were then obtained and all 17 dogs were removed from the home, including 14 of which were of a wolf-dog breed.
Two arrests were also made. Homeowner Thomas Staggs was arrested on warrants unrelated to the event, while his wife, Rhonda Staggs, was arrested on a separate warrant and suspicion of animal cruelty.
Initial reports were that deputies were planning to seek animal cruelty charges against both individuals, however, formal charges have yet to be announced by the Lyon County Attorney’s Office.
The city of Hartford partnered with Guardians of the Wolves Animal Rescue for care and treatment, with Emporia Veterinary Hospital veterinarian Dr. Richard Mendoza providing on-site care. Plan B to Save Wolves and Hartford residents also assisted.
Wynn says they do have a lot of work ahead of them in terms of rehabilitation and veterinary care. Guardians of the Wolves is a non-profit 501 C 3 organization that operates solely on donations.
If you would like more information or to donate visit Guardiansofthewolves.org.
