Thyme and Sage Ranch Jennifer Petkus review: My Adopted Puppy Died 118

What I see on here is alot of my friend-this person etc...

You can make things up very easily...it seems like these matters should be between the individual and the rescue facility.

Oprah just adopted two puppies and one died from Parvo and the other one is fighting for it's life.

Did these come from this facility too?

I rest my case.
Move on...

Penny-

You just lied. I am not sure why you are posting like an angel all of a sudden. I further wonder why you feel it is your need to be so involved and why people need to email you? Do you realize that the Sheriff's Dept has no medical records from your vet as you stated. Do you realize they were going to charge you w/ obstruction of justice? Do you realize it was verified that your puppy went straight from a vet to you? Do you realize that the Sheriff's Dept stops in very often to check on the animals? Do you realize you were at her property for 5 minutes in her front yard and never toured the rescue facility? BUT-you seem to know everything from that 5 minute visit. Are you aware that is not even the location of the rescue facility, but there is a new facility. Are you aware of how many vets misdiagnosis Coccidia w/ Parvo? Do you want us to post your email and puppy picture POST adoption of how happy you were w/ your new puppy. It was sitting in a pink silk-like chair. Do you know how quickly a puppy can go downhill when not fed? Do you want to hear your voicemail messages screaming like a wild woman? Do you realize that every call to the Sheriff's Dept is recorded?

You are so quick to judge. Are you going to start a board for Oprah now that her puppy died of Parvo and follow-up on the second one clinging for life. That shelter is at least in your state of IL. I would be interested in knowing why you are out on disability? You seem to be able to volunteer and type. I am sorry in advance if it is of a mental nature. Do you realize every complaint you brought against this rescue was unfounded by an investiagation and even made the front page of the paper?

Perhaps it is the guilt that you did not properly care for this puppy and you must make yourself feel better.

I have been friends of Jennifer for many years. If she did not give you a refund, she must really believe that you are the reason that puppy is not here today.

I dont think any of these complaints are fake, or made up. Why would people want to shut down a place, and call the sheriffs dept to complain? It seems like a waste of time if they are not valid issues. You dont see or hear about any other shelters/sanctuaries/rescues/humane societys in this area with all these complaints against them.

Yes-

One does wonder. However, what is more odd is the fact that every complaint is found to be unfounded by the Sheriff's Dept. I volunteer at a couple of Madison area shelter's, and every shelter gets complaints. It is just part of the business. Further, both have seen Parvo and Sauk County Humane is even shut down for 3 weeks because of it. Most people handle complaints directly w/ the shelter. This is more of a public bashing whose motive seems to be questionable. One shelter I volunteer with just took a huge transfer of dogs from Thyme and Sage Ranch, they are the sweetest...I wish her well, success, and more happy adoptions for the sake of these animals.
Some of these postings to get her shut down make no sense? Have you ever called other facilities to get them to take in an unwanted pet. Try it, I bet you will find it most frusteratiing and evn impossible as they are all full. Good Luck Jennifer and keep up the good work!

Bonnie more than likely you are with Dane County Shelter and that is great that you are helping her out-Lord knows she needs it. In your posting you say that you have seen Sauk County Shelter and another one closed down for 3 weeks because of it. That is the best news yet, that just means that they are a responsible shelter and did the right thing when the need arose. The way it reads in other complaints on this board is that Jennifer on the other hand preferred to deny the Parvo blaming it on owners and stressful transitions into new homes. If she is so responsible and caring, she should have closed her place down for 3 weeks to disinfect, but instead she stayed open and continued to have the public there adopting out puppies meanwhile transferring the risk from their contaminated puppies into the vets office where they had to take their puppies to get examined. Jennifer may or maynot have good intentions, or maybe she just wants money from the $350.00 she charges for the puppies so that she can quick run to another Dog Auction to buy dogs, or run to her Amish friends and claim to raid their mills. She had bragging on her petfinder posting (before she got removed) about all the raids she did, what a bunch of malarky. Jennifer simply knows the Amish and buys from them. Real Rescue groups dont go out in the country and pay for puppies. Its also interesting that AWARE of WI has only Jennifers Thyme and Sage listed as Unreputable.

You also post that most complaints are handled directly with the shelter, which is true unless of course the shelter has so many complaints against them and doesnt fix the complaints. Then the public starts getting mad and feels that they were duped by someone, so they will then start seeking out complaint boards or the better business bureau.

We too adopted the perfect puppy for our family. He too passed away within a matter of not even a month. It just makes me sick that she can continue to hurt so many families. It's sad.

Hey WI Rescuer...

What puppy broker-as you have outlined, would house so many stray dogs and adult Mill rescues? The adults far out way every puppy that comes through her doors. Also-
her adoptions fees range $50-$275. ...that just discredits your whole posting.

I agree-this is not professional or benefiting the animals...this is personal.

Do you know her bra and shoe size too?
or perhaps her salary from her full-time job...

Better yet, tend to your own rescue.
AWARE of WI is just a group of your rescue clicks...not the Pope.
Move on...

Wi Rescuer

Could you please post your name and contact info.
You posted several statements as facts-this makes you libel for such statements. Since you seem to not have a problem w/ posting such information, I anticipate this will not be an issue for you.

To clarify-I recall her stating that these Mills shut down on their own-never claiming she raids them-

Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

I logged onto this site and gave a false name, email address, and address-yet I am allowed to post?

People can say what they want and not take ownership for such slander and libel statements.
Such a shame.
A true rescue would not prevent dogs/animals from being adopted and placed into good homes w/ such public bashing and false accusations.

Maybe I should post some falseness that links to your organization to share the wealth?

I did not say she was a broker thats something you came up with on your own. Anyone who thinks that Jennifer had more adult dogs than puppys quite possibly may be wearing rose colored glasses. She must have just dropped her rates then because I know several groups who have emailed her just to find out about her prices, policies and contracts and believe me they were not $50-$275.00 as you claim. Now that she is not on Petfinder anymore unfortunately we cant see her huge array of statements how she was involved in all these mill raids, but they were posted there by her or one of her workers. Maybe they accidentally posted it wrong, or maybe she wanted everyone to think she was involved with the law enforcement with this, but considering she is not a Licensed Humane Officer she couldnt legally be involved with any raids. AWARE of WI is not a click. AWARE of WI is a group of REPUTABLE RESCUES who work together for the good of the dogs. Every member of our group has certain standards to uphold by, Jennifer should get a clue and get some minumum standards of her own: to include but not limited to- having dogs healthy and altered before she adopts them out, and not biting off more than she can chew.

And No, I will not list my name as I see none of your postings have your real name or contact information.

Here's the latest on Thyme and Sage Ranch as of 5/19/09. A criminal investigation of the facility and its owner has begun. Those who may have any information relevant to the case should contact the Richland County, Wisconsin, district attorney's office:

CAZENOVIA, Wis. – The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), under the authority and request of the Richland County (Wis.) District Attorney and Dane County Humane Society, has dispatched its forensics and animal response teams, as well as its Mobile CSI Unit, to collect evidence in the investigation of an animal sanctuary in Cazenovia, Wis., known as the Thyme and Sage Ranch.

The ASPCA is evaluating animals found at the site, which were seized by the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. The ASPCA is collecting evidence for the prosecution of the criminal case, as well as lending the services of its special forensic cruelty investigation team, comprised of disaster animal rescuers and field service investigators. More than a dozen responders from the ASPCA’s Disaster Response team are also on site, along with the ASPCA’s “Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit, ” a critical tool in the collection and processing of evidence at crime scenes.

“Animal cruelty is unacceptable, and we are doing everything we can to lend our support to this critical investigation, ” said ASPCA President and CEO Ed Sayres. “The ASPCA’s Mobile Animal CSI unit is an important component in the effort against animal cruelty, as it offers the ability to work on-site with the necessary tools, allowing evidence to be processed more accurately and efficiently.”

Animals are being examined on the scene and in the ASPCA’s CSI unit, which brings both state-of-the-art forensics tools and unmatched expertise to crime scenes. The specially-designed vehicle is also outfitted with medical equipment tailored for animal patients.

Approximately 170 dogs were discovered during the execution of the search warrant, led by the Richland County Sheriff’s department early Tuesday, May 19. Other animals on the property include horses, rabbits, chickens, goats, horses, sheep and llamas. Thyme and Sage Ranch holds the contract for Richland County to pick up stray dogs and small animals.

Animal rescue professionals from national organizations, including the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), American Humane Association (AHA), and Hooved Animal Rescue and Protection Society (HARPS), as well as local agencies such as Dane County Humane Society, are helping handle animals on the scene. PetSmart Charities® is providing much-needed resources and supplies. Dane County Humane Society is also providing outdoor space for emergency shelter tents for animals involved in the investigation.

According to the ASPCA’s Dr. Ellen Hirshberg, who is trained in veterinary forensics, many of the dogs, ranging from small to large breeds, were housed in poor conditions and suffering from ailments including severely matted fur, open wounds, and skin infections. The dogs were housed in a multiple enclosures, many poorly ventilated, as well as outdoor kennels.

The investigation was set into motion when the Thyme and Sage Ranch began generating complaints. Later, a transfer of more than 70 dogs and cats was made to Dane County Humane Society, where veterinarians performed exams on the animals. The District Attorney of Richland County and Dane County Humane Society then enlisted the support of the ASPCA for the collection and management of animal evidence.

For individuals who believe their lost pet may have been housed at the Thyme and Sage Ranch, please visit www.giveshelter.org. Local officials are also urging the public to report any information that may be relevant to the case to the Richland County District Attorney’s Office.

You know I wonder who can accuse me of lying now? I have all the documentation that I need to prove I did everything I could to help my puppy and then to report accordingly to ALL authorities in Richland County for the past year. Jennifer is the one now that will suffer because the law has finally got involved. I suspect it will be a while before Jennifer gets all these issues, both criminal and civil, resolved. I will follow through each step of the way and then to the state capitol until laws are put into place to protect any animal in the state. It is definately time isn't it? You all can say what you want about me and those that volunteer in legitimate rescues, but as I said a year ago, my Kasey would not die in vain and for all the Kasey's that have not made it to their forever homes from this facility we did a good thing and change is coming. Jennifer, shame on you...

If you have lost an animal that you adopted from T&S Ranch and want to speak with someone please email THYMEANDSAGESUIT@gmail.com. Just because she has no animals to care for does not mean this group is done. We have just started to fight animal cruelty.

This is the 05-20-09 update on Petkus/Thyme and Sage. Note dogs rescued total revised from 170 to "approximately 300." :

Jennifer Petkus, owner of the Thyme and Sage Ranch in Cazenovia, Wis. was charged today at Richland County courthouse with 16 counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty, including improper shelter, mistreating animals by intent or negligent violation, and unlawful deposit of animal carcasses. Bail was set at ten thousand dollars.

The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), under the authority and request of the Richland County (Wis.) District Attorney and Dane County Humane Society, dispatched its forensics and animal response teams, as well as its Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit, a critical tool used to collect and process evidence in the investigation of an animal sanctuary in Cazenovia, Wis., known as the Thyme and Sage Ranch on Tuesday, May 19.

Approximately 300 dogs were discovered during the execution of the search warrant, led by the Richland County Sheriff’s department. The ASPCA is evaluating animals found at the site and collecting evidence for the prosecution of the criminal case, as well as lending the services of its special forensic cruelty investigation team, comprised of disaster animal rescuers and field service investigators. Other animals on the property include horses, rabbits, chickens, goats, sheep and llamas. Thyme and Sage Ranch holds the contract for Richland County to pick up stray dogs and small animals.

http://www.aspca.org/blog/aspca-on-the-scene-at-wisconsin-animal-seizure.html

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Where's all of her supporters now?

There was a lot of misinformation about the illnesses these puppies have. No self-respecting rescue would ever send out puppies like that. It's a bunch of b.s. that it's virtually impossible to avoid parvo in a kennel, coccidia and giardia should have been tested for and treated prior to pup's release. Parvo is not 90% deadly, there are worthwhile treatments for it. I work at an animal emergency/specialty hospital and have seen a lot of puppies pull through. All she had to do was a THOROUGH disinfection. Dirty poopy puppies are never acceptable. I support a large breed rescue (a real rescue) and I think they would be mortified to adopt a puppy out like that. I'm glad the authorities have stepped in. It's a lot of animals to be absorbed by the surrounding areas, I hope they can manage.

ROFL!

Oh please, PLEASE, just ONE comment from her pathetic followers about what a travesty this is and how the entire Humane Society is also lying now to. It would make my day.

Penny - I'm glad you are finally seeing the justice you deserve, and the justice little Kasey deserves, not to mention the hundreds of other horrifically treated animals under this monsters care.

Congratulations to Jennifer for making the headliner on the Fugly Horse of the Day blog (a blog that actively educates those who read it, as well as exposing those that try to hide neglect, cruelty and other "a$$hattery")!

To Penny and those that have been victims of this horrible situation, I wish you all the best even though no amount of money or legal action will undo the harm done to you and the creatures involved. Keep fighting, don't let this woman get away with a slap on the wrist, and know that you are not alone. It is a fight that many (but never enough!) are fighting across the U.S. and the world. Sadly, the abusers rarely stop, so I fear this will not be the last we will hear of Jennifer in reference to animals kept in poor conditions with little to no healthcare. Everything I've read here sounds far more like a hoarding situation masked as a rescue.

Perhaps she will get some professional help and NOT repeat this scenario - that is the best thing that could come out of this. I've not heard of any Hoarders Anonymous groups, but they would be a great tool in stopping repeat offenders.

Blessings to those who are caring for the animals - just an animal lover from Texas,
Shannon

As someone who runs a breed-specific rescue myself, is a member of AWARE, and has a very good reputation Nationwide, I will say that under no circumstances would a dog come out of my rescue in the condition that a lot of them came from Thyme and Sage. This bust has been a long time coming and unfortunately it gives rescue's a bad name..when that is truly not the case overall. What I find even more astounding is the fact that some of her supporters claim that 1. they flew in from out of state (I'm not buying that at all..), and 2. they were perfectly fine with having to dumb additional funds into their puppy because they knew the conditions they were coming out of. I smell a rat. If anyone adopted a dog from my rescue and had to spend hundreds of dollars extra to make that dog healthy (this just wouldn't happen in the first place), my rescue would handle the bill that was incurred.

How pathetic and poor that T&S was allowed to do their damage for as long as they did. If you can't handle what you've got at hand, stop and re-assess your situation. Stop before it ever gets as bad as this and realize that you can't save them all. I look at some of the pictures from the seizure that just happend and I'm in shock that she could let any of these dogs live in these conditions and with their current ailments.

Tamara Janowski
AllSaints Saint Bernard Rescue

For those who may wish to follow the Rescue-in-Progress in removing and caring for the animals on this ranch, here is a blog that gives the specifics (these are FACTS and personal testimony by the rescuers who have been ON-SITE): http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-animals/programs/animal-emergency-services/wisconsin-animal-seizure.html

I am in complete agreement with Tamara's statement above. I believe that Jennifer herself or perhaps a small group of friends posted misinformation (outright LIES), attacking the true victims in this situation. Huge red-flags were the "out-of-state" adoptions (there aren't homeless pets in Seattle?), and the number of pets these people adopted. Few reputable rescues/sanctuaries will adopt out to locations where site-checks are not possible. Even fewer would adopt out so many at one time to so-called various family members.

I would also LOVE to have her "supporters" put their names and reputations on the line now that the truth has been revealed. Specifically, I would love to hear back from the woman who was ALL over these comments claiming that a lawsuit was pending for slander and/or libel.

I have horses which I keep at a boarding facility that has over 100 horses on location at any given time. It NEVER stinks, and we are in a creekside woodsy location without alot of grass growing in the area. The stalls are cleaned once daily, and the upkeep is basic but just fine. Even after hard rains and in severely muddy conditions, you don't SMELL horse manure (unless yours just dropped a hot pile). As we are located on the outskirts of Houston, Texas, we have a huge fly and mosquito population that can last year-round. The barn area and the turn out paddocks are not infested with any more flies or mosquitos than a neighborhood would be. In fact, there are few reports of parasites found in the horse manure that many of us have checked for worms and sand on a somewhat regular basis. If a heavy-traffic stables is able to stay that clean in the crazy weather, heat and humidity of Houston, TX - how can there be ANY excuse for having the stench that has been reported on the property and pastures at this so-called sanctuary?

Obviously, this woman took in far too many animals than she could properly care for, and either by mental illness or greed, she chose to continue adding animals to an environment that cost them their LIVES in a much more cruel fashion than the euthanasia she claimed to have saved them from. This woman needs to spend some significant JAIL time to have some idea of how the animals in her "care" felt. A life sentence would be most appopriate for people such as this.

Support and Prayers from Texas,
Shannon

Seems all of Jenny's supporters have gone with the wind. Could it be that Jenny was posting as her own supporter... hmmmm?

Gee Amy you think? If you have had a sick or dying puppy please make sure to report this to the authorities or email me...Please do this for your puppy...I know I did it for mine...RIP Kasey, RIP!

Interesting and struggling story. Many legitimate responses. My first concern was the response by the rescue when being contacted and questioned about vaccines/health environment. Rescue means "rescue." Not harsh, misleading conditions and poor customer service. Unfortunately, and especially with emotional connection to an incident, facts get morphed and misunderstood.

It is these type of discussions that keep general public educated and perhaps more cautious. First and foremost is in regards to dogs and owning/adopting one. It is an adult responsibility to train oneself fully before bringing a dog into a home. From basic living environment, risks, out of doors contact, proper food and medical, and overall respect for neighbors and residential/regional codes and regulations. Too many adoptions, acquisitions are made by quick emotional impulse that eventually leads to dogs ending up in rescues. Dispensing so to speak of a living creature due to a lack of prior educating onself is common, and yet can be avoided by taking a few steps back before jumping blindly. The dog tied up in the yard so to speak is NOT the good outcome. They are unconditional loving companions not for a week or month but for a large portion of our lives. What you give comes back ten fold with eternal memories.

Everyone look deeper into this case and the many cases that seem to sadly treat our loved canines like shopping for a new candle that will light so lovingly yet diminish in a short time. Dogs are candles that glow forever.

Watcher J,

I am not sure the intent of your post. I am sure however many adopt "furry children" and realize that they cannot handle all that a puppy can need from them in the beginning and therefore decide to relinquish ownership of that animal to rescues, humane societies, and possible to a new owner because they adopted without consideration for the dog as well. The latter is exactly what we did after we lost our Kasey. We did however verify his health and UTD vaccination record before the final adoption. My choice would have been to adopt from a rescue all along and well to be blunt I did NOT do my homework on Jennifer ahead of time. I did research the breed we were looking for prior to even considering Jennifer's dogs. We wanted to know what they needed and although I have had smaller dogs all my life, and knew how to handle a different breeds just needed verify this particular breed would be able to be comfortable in my home and part of my family that included one older, small dog already.

I am not sure if you this entire post but Kasey was my puppy and she died. We had wanted to adopt a puppy for several years but in truth knew we were too busy and that we could not devote the time needed for training and OUR unconditional love. We had the name Kasey for approximately three years prior to actually using that name only to have the dog die before she lived in my home for a full week.

Most of the people I know have dogs and have only adopted after taking the seriousness of it into consideration. Since losing Kasey I have made MANY good friends who are involved in legitimate rescues and have learned so much more about this subject as a whole. I have learned that it is not only for the prospective owners to do their homework ahead of time but for the rescues to make sure to do background and home visits if possible to make sure that the puppy is going to the best possible forever home. I had asked my vet if she had called and he said he had NOT talked to her. That should have been a sign to me since she made some comment about doing a reference check on my family. I also asked the people I listed on the adoption application and again she had not. I should have known then but well I down played it and because I had been waiting for Kasey for a month and really just wanted to get her home and start our life together.

Since this event has happened I have educated myself over and over and try to pass that information on to those looking to adopt furry children like mine. I know that each time I talk to someone about this situation I share a copy of the questions to ask and what new puppy owners should place emphasis on when speaking with anyone looking to adopt puppies to them. There really is a lot of good information out there and when you are taking the time to educate yourself about a breed choice make sure to read what should be expected from both parties. I was told at a meeting last night that a colleague recently looked for a puppy and even had an appointment with Jennifer when he did a little computer work. He found something that had my information on it and when he read it realized Jennifer was not the option for them. He thanked me and told me that he had gotten a puppy but from another source. He and his family are more than happy with their new family member. If not for people like the ones I have met over the past year, he might have been another victim of Jennifer's and suffered the loss of a beloved furry child.

I live on a stateline and although Jennifer is in Wisconsin and I am not, both states are two that have no laws that cover rescues. It is sad but until we have laws in place across the country it will be for us to find a way to guarantee we will not be victims of people like Jennifer Petkus.

It is the one of the reasons I get up each morning to continue to fight and post on boards like this. We need to keep this information fresh and accurate, until we know law enforcement has the tools they need to do their job correctly.

"I live on a stateline and although Jennifer is in Wisconsin and I am not, both states are two that have no laws that cover rescues. It is sad but until we have laws in place across the country it will be for us to find a way to guarantee we will not be victims of people like Jennifer Petkus."

Yes we do have laws to protect, that's why she has been shut down and the animals seized. I live in Southern WI and have friends in rescue (real rescues, not collectors, and their dogs are kept properly) and one of the scary things for them is when one of these places gets shut down--it gives rescue a bad name plus now there's an influx of new animals to take care of and they are all hard cases because they are in poor condition. It absolutely has to happen that these are shut down, just wish they were never allowed to get so bad before they are shut down.

We have laws about inhumane treatment and poor conditions. In cases such as this, you can contact the Better Business Bureau because as far as the law is concerned (I believe) you bought a defective puppy and should have some recourse. In the event it came with AKC papers, they too can be called and they will work to shut places like this down AND they will be suspended from any privileges. So no more selling puppies with papers for money.

We have laws on the books. Shame on the county for contracting to her without really going in and inspecting. New laws won't fix that. We need better reporting. Since law enforcement can't be everywhere at every moment, it's up to you and me to report when we see something so horribly wrong. When you don't get satisfaction at the local level, go higher. I think this is within the scope of the USDA since they are over large kennels--can't see how this is different.

I don't want to see laws raised against rescues. Most of them operate in the red to begin with and can't afford to have further licensing and what not. All we need to do is make sure they're following the laws, just like you and I have to do. I know it may be hard to step back and look given your loss but throwing more laws out there isn't going to change anything.

"We have laws about inhumane treatment and poor conditions. In cases such as this, you can contact the Better Business Bureau because as far as the law is concerned (I believe) you bought a defective puppy and should have some recourse."

I am curious "tech" have you read the Wisconsin state statute 951? It is vague at best and that I know from more than 20 years in law enforcement and my training and expierence. Until we tighten up the law and repercussions, for offenders this type of behavior will continue to happen over and over again.

While I will NOT disagree that the authorities turned their heads as to what Jennifer was doing, reporting has been happening for some time.

I have time and time again said that there are good rescues out there and unfortunately they do not have AKC registered puppies to adopt to those looking to have a pet. While you say the AKC will pull the papers from those breeders, does it stop them from breeding? Have you tried to report a situation like this to the BBB? We have and even though we have emails saying they would put her name on the "naughty" list if you will, it had not been done prior to the raid.

What else would you recommend we do? We have reported this to EVERYONE from one end of the spectrum to the other and nothing had been done until it appears someone went in undercover, if you read the complaint, and then reported their findings. This person of course was not an average citizen, but a trained doctor who I guess was more believable with their video evidence than all of those that reported prior to the past few months. Many of those involved in this raid were individuals I myself have had either a phone conversation with or sent multiple emails too, or both.

We know that the laws will be opposed and even those good breeders do not want legislation telling them how to run their businesses. You said yourself wrote:

"I live in Southern WI and have friends in rescue (real rescues, not collectors, and their dogs are kept properly) and one of the scary things for them is when one of these places gets shut down--it gives rescue a bad name plus now there's an influx of new animals to take care of and they are all hard cases because they are in poor condition."

You don't think that stronger regulation will not only help those with the authority to do more in certain circumstances, but then there would also be more accountability for those that chose not to investigate the complaints made to them? If the number of dogs bred and sold is also controlled maybe then there would not be so many animals just thrown away. Meaning the numbers of unwanted dogs in legitimate rescues and shelters would then decrease as well.

Will new, tougher laws prevent everything? No but it is a start.

Stiffer penalities aren't going to stop this because I sincerely doubt these people 1) even think there is a real problem and 2) if they do think there's a problem, they think it unlikely that they'll be caught. Hoarding is a mental illness...they're not thinking rationally and that presents some legal issues during prosecution as well. Short of life in prison there's really nothing to stop them from starting up again and I don't think putting more non-violent people in prison for long sentences is going to be a good plan, either. My husband is in law enforcement and the laws are vague for a reason--too specific and people are going to get off on technicalities. It's a double edged sword.

Number of animals being bought and sold by itself has little to do with what ends up in shelters. It's the people doing the buying and selling. These animals are placed in homes that are completely inappropriate by people trying to make a buck as fast as possible. Sometimes "to approved homes only" means simply, those from which the check clears the bank. A friend of mine was a breeder who had a LOT of litters by most standards. Every home was screened and in the event that life circumstance changed, she had it in her contract that the dog is to come back to her and only her. Pets were sold on spay/neuter contracts. She produced many of the best dogs in the history of our breed and most dogs of that breed in the show ring today go back to one of hers somewhere. She has done a lot for the breed but having a program like that requires having several dogs and breeding quite a few litters in order to get those cream of the crop dogs that will be a good influence on the gene pool. I think every breed has breeders like her...those dogs were taken care of and NOT a burden on rescue. It's really detrimental to the purebred dog community to have these additional fines and fees and in places where it has been done, it's failed because people just go underground. Another unenforceable law. And my rescue friends? They're not for these laws either...that's pretty telling.

Why not better educate buyers? It takes time and effort for sure but I don't let that stop me from trying. I hit people over the head with it whenever I can. I do public education in several booths throughout the year. I do believe people are listening. The biggest problems are 1) Backyard breeders who own like 2 dogs and have 1-2 litters/year and would fall well within any law that is passed and 2) puppy mills/pet stores who have a big voice politically and we're never going to beat them in a political battle. So the only effective way to do something is through education. The only group left who will get legislated will be the reputable breeders and it's happening all over the country. As someone active in dog sports and activities, I've read about all of the places around the country where these laws have ended up screwing only the reputable people and they end up not working anyway. We have to be more creative in our efforts. Promote low cost spay/neuter, do talks at schools, educate, educate, educate. It's slow going but I believe it has much greater long-term effect than any law. Common people have to know a law is there for it to be effective. Making a law is easier for sure. It's just not reasonable in this economic climate, nor would I expect it to be successful in a strong economy because law enforcement seems to consider it a low priority. I know it's hard to do but when people walk into situations like this, they HAVE to walk away without buying a puppy. The 'but I just couldn't leave her' response is what keeps these sick people in business. Same goes for pet stores. I do understand how hard it is but it is for the best...

When I had a neighbor who was swinging golf clubs at my dogs to provoke them to bark and come at him, I called the police and was told that taking reports from people was not sufficient in this legal climate. They need hard evidence and I was told to catch it on video. I understand from their side, particularly in this legal climate, that they need to have basically unimpeachable evidence before they can do much. In this day and age practically everyone has a cell phone camera, most now even take video. Sneak a few pictures and take it to authorities with the threat of going really public and just see how quickly they act. When we've had animals come in through emergency that have signs of abuse/neglect, first thing we do (if they're stable) is whip out the camera and document everything we find. It's the best testimony.

Am I reading it wrong that you went to a rescue to get a papered puppy? My question would be 'why would someone do that?' I wonder what difference it makes if it's just to be a pet. Pulling papers doesn't stop these people, however, puppy people seem to put a much higher value on having AKC papers. Beyond that, if they come in and inspect and find these conditions, they have the money and the clout to see that something gets done about it. My dogs came from reputable breeders (one of which was a return from a buyers who were divorcing and gave her up) so I haven't dealt with the BBB in regards to dogs. I know sometimes the BBB is a pain--my claim was not animal related--but if you push and come in with evidence, they will investigate.

Submitting the story to local news teams is another way to get them to act. Law enforcement doesn't want to be on the wrong side of a story. That's how action came in the Micheal Vick case, it went public because allegedly not much was going to be done before that...

At the end of the day, animals will always be thrown away because irresponsible people will buy puppies on a whim or puppies that are inappropriate for their situation. I've been brutal with people, telling them what really happens when they left their dog at the shelter, owner turn-ins are the first to die when there's no room. We cannot regulate stupidity. So instead we need to try other methods.

I am interested to know why Richland County and surrounding counties (Dane) didn't speak up and offer to help if things so blatantly were getting out of hand? How is that fair to the animals (most importantly) and to Ms. Petkus?

There was no shelter for the county. Shame on YOU, Richland County.

The situation is unfortunate, but I doubt highly that Ms. Petkus was vindictive or abusive. It's a tragedy, but one I am SURE could have been avoided.

Where is government assistance? Oversight?

The situation is not unfortunate. It is criminal. That is why Ms. Petkus has been brought up on numerous charges, and has gone before the courts today. I look forward to hearing the outcome. What is unfortunate is the suffering and electronic harassment the unsuspecting persons who adopted in, good faith, from this sanctuary have been subjected to. I mourn with them the loss of their pets. As the saying goes, "Better late than never." Clearly we are a slow-moving society, but as such, progress eventually occurs. It occurs because of people like Penny, and the others like her, whose persistence eventually prevails. I too am a great proponent of the adage: "The squeaky wheel gets the oil." Congratulations, Kasey, Penny, and your entire family and community. Job well done. Elizabeth McMahon

Thank you Elizabeth. It was rough to come to the boards for the past year and to be honest I thought it would get easier...It has not. I have decided that as long as the facts are out there I am not going to attempt to defend this fight. I have said all along that as long we are being completely honest and doing this for the right reason, we really don't need to defend ourselves. It is of course hard when we read all the stuff posted on complaint boards and such. But for the rare post like yours, it feels like we are the criminals instead of the victims. Thank you for reminding me that I am doing this for the right reason.

I don't know if it was Lab Lady or Penny who got the authorities involved in this mess, but thank god for your perserverance.

I had a post by the ASPCA today and hadn't heard this news before, but had often wondered how T &S got all those puppies it always had and how it could handle all the rescues it took in. I found this site to try to get to the bottom of it and it was really amazing to read the support posts, after seeing the "raid" pictures. If they were not posted by the same person, and those people are real and really believed in her, they must be in total shock and devestation when they viewed the picts and the charges. I actually feel sorry for them, if they are "real" .

I DO recall about 27 shih tzus supposedly got from a closed down breeder in a story some time ago ( I really THINK it was S&T but not 100%) and something made me think the picts were of the rescued conditions not the breeder conditions either ...it all sends shivers now.

I also knew in my heart they couldn't be a really good rescue as they did no home inspections and no wating and no vet references or personnal references checked at all--did less than most humane socities /shelters do to assure a quality home.

Wish I knew how to get the AWARE list, as I used to do rescue 10 yrs ago in another state and now just try to link breed rescues to dogs at great risk. Boy, would I hate to have had her take one. For sure there are worse things than being PTS, but the bad breeders she apparently got dogs from would typically be drowning or electrocuting them or hitting over head or shooting them.

I am sickened and ashamed that Wisconsin now has one of the worst puppy mill reps out. It is clear more laws and more enforcement is needed. Also clear we should be creating laws to shut down that enormous breeder.

Now there is a possible way to have all states (but esp. WISCONSIN) create jobs. Someone needs to encourage the state/counties/cities to submit proposals for govt funds now available--create MANY inspector jobs at Dept of Ag. and good city shelters too with big staffs of people who were out of work and who were no longer getting unemployment.

Penny or Lab Lady, how about it for an encore for Kasey and the rest? The Fed govt WANTS cities and counties and states to submit needed projects that can be quickly implimented, don't they? Inspectors could be put to immediate use. So could grooming help and training help for shelters and even people calling to check references and make home inspections.

Lesley, we are not done yet...This just stopped one person we want so much more...

Thank you!

>>

So a law is done awaywith because it's not enforced? Hogwash. And as far as fines being detrimental to the purebred dog community? Maybe they need to change thet way they do business. Any breeder who has "quite a few litters to get cream of the crop dogs" and says they're not a burden on rescue is only fooling themselves. A s/n contract is NOT a spayed/neutered dog. Anyone intentionally releasing unaltered animals IS a burden on the rescue community.

Elizabeth is right. Situations such as this aren't "unfortunate". They are ILLEGAL. And I for one, will no longer "call Animal Control" as is promoted by the police here. AC here has no police power... so I will call the police over and over until something is done. It's their job. And we also report anyone selling dogs who is not paying sales tax.. which is almost all of them.

Penny.. you have no need to defend any part of what you're doing... we could use MORE of you.

I in NO WAY condone animal abuse in any shape or form. I in no way support or defend this woman. BUT, this woman is catching sooooo much slack from all of you when you need to STOP and think that this type of thing would never happen if people took their commitment with animals and pets more SERIOUSLY. It is so easy for people to just give up or throw away their pets for various reasons; moving, behavioral issues, being too much work, not having the time...yadda yadda yadda. This is how animals end up in shelters and with people like Jennifer. In all honesty, she may have had good intentions. This is not a case of animals being beaten, but a case of someone not being able to properly care for SO MANY UNWANTED animals therefore hurting the animals more than helping them. It may have been hard for her to turn her back on animals and maybe she felt like she could save the world when reality one person cannot do it alone. I have 8 (rescued) cats and 3 (rescued) dogs myself and wish I too could save the animal kingdom, but I know I can't and in trying to help more than I am capable of, puts the animals at risk.

Very simply stated, Amy, Jennifer Petkus did not take her chosen responsibility for these dogs seriously. I doubt that she ever did. What is emerging from the disclosed facts is that she took quite seriously making a buck at any expense. I don't think you have reconciled yourself with this information. Ms. Petkus is not a hoarder, someone for whom we should pity. She is an ersatz dog mller. It is good riddance to her "sanctuary' and a blessing that so many dogs will have an opportunity to thrive, without her charity.

Simply stated, Elizabeth, if pet owners took their commitment with their pets more seriously, they would never end up in a place like this. That was my first main point. Jennifer may be guilty of abuse, neglect, and running a dog/puppy mill as you suggest, but there are many other guilt parties. I mean, all these animals didn't appear out of nowhere did they? Where did they come from? Exactly!

The great preponderance of the dogs on her farm came from auction houses, at which Ms. Petkus would place bids, winning a great deal of the time. The dogs were former breeder dogs. It has been alluded that she continued that tract of behavior with these dogs, thus providing the seemingly endless supply of puppies. Penny, does that pretty much cover it?

I just learned about the charges against Thyme and Sage Ranch and I just couldn't believe it. I feel deceived. I adopted a puppy there at the beginning of January 2009, believing I was adopting from a rescue shelter. Now I'm learning that I was (and many others) was deceived.

With the first couple days of bringing my puppy, Sadie, home, she was extremely sick. Coccidia, Giardia, Bordetellosis. She was sick for almost two weeks and it cost hundreds of dollars to get her well again.

I hope charges are brought against Jennifer and this kind of thing doesn't happen again.

Sammie and Elizabeth thank you so very much. Amy have you read this from the beginning until the most current post? What excuse does anyone use for beating up the victims like myself? I mean a couple of months ago not only were my good deeds questioned but even my mental capacity? Did I do something wrong? We are responsible parents and went there to adopt puppies that had been "rescued"? Not sick animals that were purchased at auction or mill, but a furry someone who truly needed a home only to have our hearts ripped out of our chests within a week or less when they die after we have spent hundreds or thousands of dollars.

I cannot believe that ANYONE that read the criminal complaint could even remotely try to justify anything that Jennifer has done in the name of a "rescue". In truth many of the animals that were "cared" for (I use that word very loosly) by Jennifer were in far worse condition than I am sure an abused dog would be in a bad home. The criminal complaint talks about lack of appropriate shelter, about dogs being severly malnourished, frozen water in bowls, living animals with maggots in their ears, broken limbs with bones protruding from the flesh with infected wounds, skin infections and so much more. You say that is someone trying to "help" an animal?

I believe that anyone that has EVER been affected at all by Jennifer no matter how closely has EVERY right to comment, argue, and fight for the right of the animals to NEVER again be in her care. I mean I cannot believe that anyone that loves an animal just throws the deceased animals in a pile or lets them decompose in a small crate along with other rotting animals.

I felt there was nothing Jennifer could do worse than sell me a sick puppy until I read the complaint. I could do nothing but cry as I sat here and read the document. Jennifer is getting what she deserves. This has been hard on all of Jennifer's victims but what she has done to all those animals is criminal. I for one am very glad that she has been outed finally. I personally hope that they will be able to find something that is a felony to charge her with. She deserves to be imprisoned as she imprisoned those animals. She unfortunately will be given fair treatment if she should ever be incarcerated but you know everyone has to answer to a higher power at some time. She will not know until her final breath where exactly she will spend eternity!

I don't get the idea Amy's blaming you for anything here, but rather the people who threw away their pets. She's right, people are too quick to throw away their animals and anyone who has dealt with real rescue has heard some really crazy reasons--no kidding, my friend got a "The dog no longer matches the couch." In my mind they're about as bad as the people who abuse animals but that's a whole other topic.

I don't believe Jennifer is getting what she deserves, I think there's probably no punishment cruel enough to cover what she's done to these animals. If we had limitless space and resources I would say sure, lock her up and throw away the key and let her be treated as she treated, or rather neglected, these animals.

"So a law is done awaywith because it's not enforced? Hogwash. And as far as fines being detrimental to the purebred dog community? Maybe they need to change thet way they do business. Any breeder who has "quite a few litters to get cream of the crop dogs" and says they're not a burden on rescue is only fooling themselves. A s/n contract is NOT a spayed/neutered dog. Anyone intentionally releasing unaltered animals IS a burden on the rescue community."

Sammie, there are laws in place and they are not enforced. Prior to making new laws we should try enforcing what we have otherwise anything new that comes on the books will be just as useless as what is already there. It will get us nowhere. You clearly have no idea about what goes into being a reputable breeder. It's expensive. The backyard breeders and puppy mills have no such financial burden since they don't bother to feed their dogs the best food, do necessary health clearances, prove the dogs in some way (working, showing, whatever), and they don't spend lots of time and money finding the right dog to breed to. And no, my friend wasn't a burden on rescue because if she even took in the dogs who weren't her breeding but went back to her dogs a generation or two back. Others do this too. Rescue actually recommends her if someone comes to them and is bent on getting a puppy and they don't have any. If you buy a dog on a contract and breed it anyway you'll be blackballed from ever getting another. Pediatric spay and neuter is a pretty poor policy as it increases the likelihood of some pretty nasty health problems down the line from the hormonal to the skeletal--that's cruel to the pet and really crappy for the owner who has to both watch this and pay for the vet care. We are seeing an increase in euthanasia already from people not being able to afford to treat their sick animals--so you want to make it worse by making it mandatory? Talk to those of us who are bagging the bodies and trying to console the heartbroken people who can't afford to fix what's wrong. It really sucks. The reputable purebred dog community has ways of dealing with violators, no worries. It's also incredibly ignorant to assume that any unaltered animal is even going to be bred. I have 3 unaltered adult males who do not escape, have never been bred nor will they, and they're good canine citizens. Exactly WHAT burden are they on a rescue? None at all. There are health reasons that support keeping male dogs intact that trump the ones supporting neuter. A law that places further financial burden on good breeders will either run them out totally OR only the absolute elite will be able to afford them. Devoted good homes who wish to have dogs who are more than companions should be able to get a dog who suits their needs. Nobody has the right to say otherwise.

Screw calling the police, call the local media. You wanna see something get done in a hurry, get the media involved because the more they poke around, the more law enforcement is going to step up. The whole Michael Vick bust wouldn't have happened if not for major media coverage. The local authorities weren't going to do much about it.