Jordan Beck/Daily Press photo Labrador Retriever puppies born to “Tequila” — one of 134 dogs rescued from a puppy mill in Maple Ridge Township nearly a month ago — get some rest at the Delta Animal Shelter Thursday.

By JORDAN BECK

For The Daily News

ESCANABA — Nearly a month after police busted a puppy mill in Maple Ridge Township, the Delta Animal Shelter is still busy caring for animals rescued from the mill. Shelter Manager Susan Gartland said things are going well at the shelter overall.

On Aug. 24, troopers from the Michigan State Police Gladstone Post discovered the puppy mill while checking on a horse in an area roadway. A total of 134 dogs and 20 horses were seized by police.

The dogs were taken to the Delta Animal Shelter, and the horses, which were also taken into the shelter’s care, were brought to an undisclosed farm. Currently, the shelter’s primary focus is on caring for these animals and giving them medical attention.

“All the dogs and all the horses have been seen and evaluated by local veterinarians and have treatment plans in place,” Gartland said.

According to Gartland, the shelter’s dog population has continued to grow.

“In 10 days, 53 puppies were born here at the shelter,” she said.

As of Thursday, the shelter had one dog in labor and seven other confirmed pregnancies.

Though the shelter has been dealing with an influx of animals, support from people and organizations in the area has increased in turn. Recently, the Dewdrop Family Restaurant and its customers made a donation of almost $5,000 to the shelter.

Gartland gave her thanks to the Dewdrop and all other local businesses and individuals that have donated supplies, blankets, food and money to the shelter in recent weeks.

“Every little bit of what’s been donated is needed to care for so many animals on a daily basis,” she said.

Evidence in an investigation into the living conditions of animals at the puppy mill is still being processed, and will be turned over to the state police and — eventually — the Delta County Prosecutor’s Office. The shelter is also continuing its normal operations, including adoptions and receiving strays.

With this in mind, Gartland encouraged people interested in adopting dogs rescued from the mill to remain patient for the time being.

“It does take time for all of that,” she said, noting the shelter will continue to provide updates on the situation.

For more information, go to “Delta Animal Shelter” on Facebook.

Jordan Beck can be reached at 906-786-2021 or jbeck@dailypress.net.