Missouri Attorney General Sues Two Animal Care Operators
Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway, in coordination with the Missouri Department of Agriculture, filed lawsuits against two animal care operators for allegedly disregarding state animal welfare laws. The legal actions target operations in Howell County and Jasper County to stop ongoing mistreatment, enforce licensing requirements, and compel full compliance with state standards.
Rocky Top K9 Operations and Inspections in Howell County
In Howell County, Ellen Roberts—doing business as Rocky Top K9 in West Plains—accumulated multiple violations during inspections conducted in December 2025 and April 2026. State inspectors documented overcrowded enclosures alongside structural defects that allowed dogs to escape or climb into neighboring pens. Officials also noted widespread pest activity, which included insects, rodent feces, and a live mouse.
Beyond facility conditions, Roberts repeatedly refused mandatory inspections and failed to make the property available. According to the Attorney General’s Office, she did not respond to notices requesting a mutually agreed-upon inspection time. To address all cited deficiencies, the state is asking the court for corrective action, civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation, a permanent injunction to prohibit further violations, and unrestricted inspection access.
The Dog House on Apple Road Licensing Violations in Jasper County
Deana Brown—doing business as The Dog House on Apple Road, LLC in Carthage—kept running a boarding kennel in Jasper County without a valid license following its expiration on January 31, 2025, and once more after it expired on January 31, 2026. Inspectors observed more than two dozen dogs boarded at the facility on two separate occasions despite the expired credential. They also spotted advertising for boarding services on the property and along Highway 59.
When inspectors attempted oversight, Brown refused the required annual inspection, told the inspector to leave immediately, and stated she would not permit further visits. The Jasper County Circuit Court entered a default judgment against Brown after she failed to appear, finding violations of licensing and inspection requirements and granting permanent injunctive relief. To stop Brown from accepting payment for boarding services without proper licensing, the Attorney General’s Office is seeking a permanent injunction, authority to conduct inspections, and civil penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Missouri Lawsuits
What specific penalties is the state seeking against Ellen Roberts?
The Attorney General’s Office is seeking a permanent injunction against further violations, civil penalties of up to $1,000 per violation, unrestricted inspection access, and mandatory corrective action for all documented deficiencies at Rocky Top K9.
What legal action has already been finalized in the Jasper County case?
The Jasper County Circuit Court entered a default judgment against Deana Brown after she failed to appear in court, establishing violations of state licensing and inspection rules and granting permanent injunctive relief.
Where can Missouri residents report concerns about animal care facilities?
Residents who have concerns about animal care facilities can submit a formal complaint online through the official Missouri Attorney General’s website at ago.mo.gov.