South Miami Heights — Three men were taken into custody, two of them in custody, after a search warrant was served at an illegal animal clinic in southwest Miami-Dade on Saturday.
Miami-Dade police said officers executed a search warrant at a South Miami Heights home where they said they were told about the clinic by an anonymous tipster.
According to MDPD investigators, a former customer, Andre Martin, called sometime last year to report an “unlicensed veterinary hospital” where the tipster brought his pet in for tail surgery. said. However, the injured tail became infected and the owner had to take it to an official veterinary hospital. Unfortunately, the pet ended up having his tail amputated as a result of the injuries he sustained.
Martin said when the warrant was executed, investigators found about six to eight patients waiting outside the home to care for the animals. During this time, three men were detained by police, two of whom were taken into police custody. Fortunately, no animals were trapped inside the home and all pets that were present were safely returned to their owners.
“We are pleased that our investigators were able to prevent these animals from being examined by unlicensed veterinarians,” he said.
During the search, officers discovered numerous bottles of prescription veterinary drugs obtained using the license of a real veterinarian, the homeowner himself. The other two, on the other hand, were unlicensed veterinarians who mainly carried out day-to-day work. Martin said that although he was at the home at the time of the raid, investigators could not confirm at this time the extent to which the real veterinarian was involved in the clinic.
Martin said the illegal clinic had been in operation for “years” and customers had heard about it through word of mouth. Additionally, he noted, it was a cash-only business, presumably to avoid being tracked or located.
Martin also advised pet owners about possible red flags when finding proper care for their animals.
“Whenever we bring our pets to the vet, we understand that our pets are like family members, like children to some, part of the family, and to all of us. “It's very important and we should do everything in our power to make sure they receive the best care possible by licensed people,” he said.
“When you walk into a business, a veterinary clinic, a veterinary clinic, or an emergency room, you need to feel good about where you are taking your animal.[s]. “If you see something unsanitary outside your home, like this ineffective surgery, it's probably not the place to bring your pet,” Martin added.
He also shared that there are many free services online that can help pet owners verify businesses and licenses.
“A simple Google search can really prevent a lot of pain and heartache from needlessly injuring a loved one, an animal,” Martin said.
Investigators remain on scene and are working with officials from the Department of Business and Professional Resources to determine the appropriate repercussions for the clinic and its operators. Although no one has been formally charged at this time, Martin said the two men in custody could face charges of operating an unlicensed veterinary clinic and felony animal cruelty charges, and the homeowner may face at least one count of felony animal cruelty. He said he could have his veterinary license revoked.
In addition, police are working to ensure that other animals involved or injured as a result of the clinic receive the justice they deserve, Martin said.
Martin also advised pet owners who have attended the clinic or who are aware of other illegal veterinary practices to contact police. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can always call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at (305) 471-TIPS.
