Attorney General Koster Shuts Down C&N Sunset Kennels

Attorney General Chris Koster shut down dog breeder C&N Sunset Kennels in Ellsinore, Missouri, for multiple violations of the Animal Care Facilities Act (ACFA). Owner Connie Nelson must now transfer all of her breeding dogs to rescue shelters, the public or licensed breeders who are ACFA compliant.

Nelson is barred for six years from applying for a permit to operate an animal shelter, pound, kennel (boarding or commercial), pet shop or commercial breeder facility. She was also fined $5,000, however will only have to pay $500 of that fine if she doesn't violate these conditions in the next six years.

Among Nelson's violations:

Operating without an ACFA License
Failing to provide veterinary care
Failing to provide dogs potable water
Failing to provide resting surfaces for dogs in elevated cages
Failing to identify dogs and maintain records of their identities
Failing to keep records of the disposition of her dogs

In a press release touting the penalties, Koster reminds us that he "has made cracking down on illegal dog breeders and sellers a priority in his office." So for not providing clean drinking water or veterinary care, Connie Nelson only has to pay a $500 fine and agree not to be an unlicensed breeder for six years? That's ridiculous. Hit her with the full $5,000 penalty and really send a statement to the unlicensed, non-compliant breeders.