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Animals Seized In Lakeland Getting A Checkup

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 25, 2008

LAKELAND - A veterinarian and shelter workers are continuing to evaluate 123 animals seized Saturday from a home in Lakeland.

More than half of the animals had been evaluated as of Monday morning, and all of them had fleas or skin conditions, officials said. Seventeen of the dogs had ear infections, 15 tested positive for whipworms, 30 had overgrown toenails and 30 had mouth or gum problems.

Veterinarian Joseph Ertel and his staff have also been cleaning dried feces from the animals; in some cases, the animal's fur had to be trimmed.

Officials say the animals that have been evaluated seem to be in good spirits.

The animals' owner, Carolyn Bragg, 57, faces 123 counts of animal neglect, one count of offering dogs for sale without a health certificate and three counts of tampering with evidence.

Bragg's daughter, Sue-Ann Goodman, 39, was arrested on a charge of tampering with evidence. The Florida Department of Children & Families took custody of Goodman's 12-year-old daughter.

Detectives and animal control officers seized 117 dogs and puppies - mostly Pomeranians, Yorkshire terriers, dachshunds and pugs. They also took custody of five cats and a parrot.

Officials said the animals were kept in cages and crates inside and outside the house at 6330 Lunn Road. Some roamed on the property.

Investigators say Bragg had become overwhelmed by the animals.

Scott Wilder, a spokesman with the Polk County Sheriff's Office, which runs the county's animal shelter, said people already are asking about adopting the animals.

Wilder said officers are filing paperwork to take legal ownership of the animals. Until a court grants ownership, the animals cannot be placed for adoption. That process could take three to five months.

News Channel 8 reporter Chip Osowski contributed to this report.

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