Minn. dog kennel owner pleads guilty to 1 count

Published 11:39 am Tuesday, October 15, 2013

WALKER, Minn. — The owner of a northern Minnesota breeding operation where more than 100 dogs were seized this summer has pleaded guilty to one count.

The Cass County prosecutor’s office says 60-year-old Deborah Rowell of Pine River pleaded guilty to failing to provide dogs with adequate shade.

Rowell had been charged with nine violations, ranging from animal neglect to depriving animals of shelter, shade and water. Her trial was scheduled to begin Monday.

Rowell was sentenced to serve three months in jail and pay a fine of $135. The jail time was suspended for a year provided she complies with all animal-care laws and that law enforcement can inspect her kennel at all times.

Authorities executed a search warrant at Rowell’s kennel on July 16 and seized 133 dogs, including 29 puppies.