Animal control seeks donations to help care for DeSoto puppy mill dogs

Writer: Derrick Shaw
Published: Updated:
(Credit: Salem, VA Police Department, DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office)

The criminal case against a married couple accused of keeping more than 80 animals, including 58 dogs, in deplorable conditions has been forwarded to the state attorney’s office.

Rose Romano, the woman who owns Strawberry Farms, was arrested in Salem, VA. The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office said Romano will be extradited to Florida for trial.

Also arrested was Romano’s husband Robert Polk.

MORE: 2 arrested after ‘deplorable’ conditions discovered at Arcadia dog breeder

The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation into the puppy mill could lead to more charges for Romano and Polk.

(CREDIT: DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office)

Because of this, no further information can be released on the case, including information on specific dogs and the adoption process, the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office said.

The dogs are being cared for at DeSoto Animal Control but are in need of a few items.

If anyone would like to make donations, they can be sent to:

DeSoto County Animal Control
2048 NE McKay Street
Arcadia, FL 34266

Items needed include:

  • Science Diet dog food
  • Nylabones
  • Kong toys
  • Milk bone treats
  • Clean/new, thick blankets
  • Bleach
  • Liquid laundry detergent

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