JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, in partnership with the Missouri Department of Agriculture, has filed lawsuits against two animal care operators for repeatedly violating the state’s animal welfare laws. The lawsuits aim to halt ongoing instances of animal mistreatment, ensure adherence to inspection and licensing requirements, and safeguard animal welfare in Missouri.
Read More
"Missourians care deeply about their pets and expect animals to be treated with care, compassion, and dignity. Missouri’s animal welfare laws establish important protections for animals and clear responsibilities for those entrusted with their care," said General Hanaway. "When these standards are ignored and Missouri’s animals are subjected to unacceptable conditions, our office has a responsibility to act to enforce the law and ensure that Missouri’s animals are protected."
In Howell County, Ellen Roberts, operating as Rocky Top K9 in West Plains, has been cited for multiple violations as detailed in inspections conducted in December 2025 and April 2026. Inspectors noted overcrowding in enclosures, dogs escaping due to structural flaws, and severe pest infestations, including insects and rodent feces.
Roberts has repeatedly denied access for mandatory inspections and failed to respond to requests for agreed-upon inspection times. The Attorney General’s Office seeks a permanent injunction to prevent further violations, civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation, and unrestricted access for inspections along with necessary corrective actions.
In Jasper County, Deana Brown, who operates The Dog House on Apple Road, LLC in Carthage, continued running a boarding kennel without a valid license after its expiration on January 31, 2025, and again on January 31, 2026. Inspectors documented instances where over two dozen dogs were boarded at the facility despite the expired license and observed advertising for services along Highway 59.
Brown refused the required annual inspection, insisting the inspector leave and denying any further inspection access. As a result, the Attorney General’s Office is pursuing civil penalties, the authority to conduct inspections, and a permanent injunction against Brown to prevent her from accepting payment for boarding services without the proper licensing. The Jasper County Circuit Court has already issued a default judgment against Brown for failing to appear, confirming violations of Missouri’s licensing and inspection laws and granting permanent injunctive relief.
The Attorney General’s Office and the Missouri Department of Agriculture will continue to enforce Missouri’s animal welfare statutes to ensure compliance with all inspection, licensing, and care regulations. Residents with concerns about animal care facilities are encouraged to submit complaints at ago.mo.gov.