Pet Search, co-founders cited by state dog warden
The co-founders of the Canton Township-based Pet Search, as well as the rescue organization, were cited last week by a state dog warden for violating sections of state dog laws.
Kent Knight, 62, and Sherry Knight, 63, both of 257 Pointview Drive, along with Pet Search, were cited following an Aug. 30 inspection by three dog wardens at the rescue’s facility on their property. The citations were filed at the office of District Judge David Mark.
The citations included alleged violations of kennel regulations for not having sufficient ventilation to minimize odors and ammonia levels; not having primary enclosures sanitized a minimum of once a day, or as needed; failure to maintain the building and grounds or keep them clean and in good repair; failure to provide adequate run space; failure to maintain indoor housing facilities in a manner to protect and contain the dogs; failure to make interior of building water resistant; and failure to provide an interior enclosure at least six inches higher of the tallest dog, when standing.
Citations also were issued for failure to keep complete records for the dogs at the kennel location, failure to display a kennel license issued by the state Department of Agriculture in a conspicuous location, failure to provide health certificates for dogs coming in from out of state, failure to maintain records onsite of forms issued by the department, and failure to provide proof of rabies vaccinations or exemptions within 48 hours after proof was requested.
The warden who filed the citations noted in a kennel inspection report on file with the state’s Dog Law Enforcement Office of Kennel Inspections that there were 14 adult dogs present at the time of the inspection.
The warden alleged that trim around doors had been scratched, exposing the dogs to nails, doors had been chewed through, and there was an area where the metal corners on door frames were rusted.
The warden also said that two dogs were being kept in a garage in an enclosure that did not provide adequate clearance for their heads, and a strong odor of ammonia was present. The level was measured and documented. Primary enclosures also allegedly had a buildup of hair, dirt, dust and debris. The warden noted that the dog enclosures had to be sanitized at least once a day.
The warden directed that corrections be made at the facility. The report also indicated that a followup inspection would be done.
This is the second time this year that Sherry Knight has been cited following an inspection by a dog warden. She received several citations in April. She pleaded guilty at a summary trial over deficiencies in record-keeping for dogs Pet Search helped rescue. The remaining citations stemming for failure to provide “humane and sanitary conditions” were dismissed by a state dog warden as part of a plea deal.
Kent Knight is a humane officer in Washington County.
In response to a Facebook message, Sherry Knight indicated Wednesday afternoon that they have not received any citations.