The six living dogs seized in the “Sick Puppy Peddler” case have all been officially adopted through Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles (spcaLA.)
“Following news reports of their availability, we had a flurry of interest in these Golden Retriever dogs,” said spcaLA President, Madeline Bernstein. “We were able to match all six dogs with new families, who will provide them the ongoing veterinary and behavioral care the dogs will need for the rest of their lives.”
On June 6, 2019, spcaLA seized six Golden Retrievers in the course of the animal cruelty investigation into the actions of Gustavo Gonzalez. The investigation resulted in Gonzalez being charged with 73 criminal counts for selling puppies that became very ill soon after they were sold to more than two dozen victims. Gonzalez remains in custody with $1,055,000 bail. The dogs had been in spcaLA protective custody since June.
At spcaLA, the dogs underwent a robust plan of veterinary and behavioral care. Due to their rough start in life, spcaLA is providing a free 1-hour private training session to the dogs’ adopters, as continuing their positive reinforcement training plan is paramount. spcaLA Veterinary Services noted the dogs now appear to be in good general health, but that adopters should follow-up with their family veterinarian, as some may have breed-related orthopedic and other concerns.
spcaLA is the only private animal welfare organization in Los Angeles that is also Law Enforcement. spcaLA Humane Officers hold the same powers of Peace Officers in the state of California when investigating animal cruelty. spcaLA is a non-profit agency that relies on donations for its programs and services, including animal cruelty investigations. To donate, please visit spcaLA.com or call 323-730-5300 x3233.
The case remains under investigation by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Los Angeles, DCBA, the District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation and the Downey Police Department.