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Judge scolds 'backyard breeder' for poor condition of dogs

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By JEFF PATTERSON | News Channel 8

Published: June 12, 2009

A judge this morning had harsh words for a woman accused of keeping more than two dozen dogs in deplorable conditions.

Judge Nick Nazaretian ordered Dovie Jewel Carter to give up rights to the 28 dogs that Hillsborough County Animal Services seized from a business in the 8900 block of 39th Street East in Tampa on Thursday.

"I'm tired of this. I'm tired of these backyard breeders hurting dogs," Nazaretian said. "There are probably hundreds of backyard breeders that we don't know about and we have to stop it."

The judge ordered Carter to say away from all animals. She will be arrested if she has any animals or pets in her home, Nazaretian said. Carter's age did not sway his decision.

"Eighty-five years old. I don't care how old you are," Nazaretian said. "I care about these dogs."

In a joint operation of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office and the Tampa Police Department, investigators seized the dogs from Carter and another 35 dogs from a business in the 300 block of Orsley Drive in Seffner. James Jordan of Seffner was not at home when investigators served the warrant.

Both breeders could face animal cruelty charges.

The dogs, mostly Yorkshire Terriers, are being tested for medical issues, said animal services veterinarian Isabel Roese.

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