Miami County shelter seeks help after seizing 102 dogs; woman pleads guilty

The Miami County Animal Shelter seized 102 Shih Tzu dogs in Pleasant Hill on December 31, 2024. They will be up for adoption from the shelter beginning Jan. 21.

The Miami County Animal Shelter seized 102 Shih Tzu dogs in Pleasant Hill on December 31, 2024. They will be up for adoption from the shelter beginning Jan. 21.

TROY — Miami County animal welfare officials said Friday that they seized more than 100 dogs from a Pleasant Hill property Dec. 31 after receiving a complaint of deplorable conditions.

The 102 Shih Tzus were taken during the visit to the residence by Animal Shelter officials and representatives of the Sheriff’s Office, and now are receiving proper care, a statement released by the county said.

Nancy S. Snell, 68, of Pleasant Hill was cited into Miami County Municipal Court on misdemeanor charges. She pleaded guilty to two counts of animal cruelty and neglect Jan. 14, said Rob Craft, shelter director. She also agreed to the release of the dogs to the shelter, he said.

Snell’s sentencing was scheduled for Feb. 18 before Judge Anthony Kendell.

The arrival of the additional dogs, including nine litters of puppies, has taxed the shelter, staff said. The shelter is asking people to help with supplies, food, medical fund donations and fosters for nursing mothers and puppies.

The donations and monetary contributions can be delivered to the shelter at 1110 N. County Road 25A north of Troy, during business hours. A list of food and supplies needed is available at on the shelter’s website (www.co.miami.oh.us/110/Animal-Shelter), their Amazon wish list or Miami County’s Partners for Animal Welfare Chewy wish list.

The dogs are not yet available for adoption. Those interested in fostering nursing mothers/puppies are asked to complete an online application. Updates will be posted on the Miami County Animal Shelter Facebook page as the dogs become available for adoption.

The first group of the dogs will be available Tuesday, Jan. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More information on the adoption process is available online.

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