Woman has animals seized

FOSTORIA --- A woman who owns a dog training facility had animals seized from a residence last Sunday and is being allegedly accused of animal cruelty. Madyson B. Bauknecht is the 20-year-old owner and operator of Empowered K-9's of Findlay, a facility that also provides boarding, pet sitting and private lessons, according to its website. The Humane Society of Seneca County was called to her residence June 10 after a neighbor reported to the Fostoria Police Department that Bauknecht had not been home in two weeks and left her animals inside, according to a police press report. Three living dogs and a deceased puppy were impounded from her residence June 16. Two vials of animal medication and an animal medication package were also seized, according to a Humane Society of Seneca County notice of seizure and impoundment. A civil case was filed against Bauknecht by the Humane Society in Tiffin-Fostoria Municipal Court June 17. After a hearing June 21, Tiffin-Fostoria Municipal Court Judge Rhonda Best ordered that "all animals seized shall be cared for and maintained by the Seneca County Humane Society," pending completion of the case, according to court records. It was also ruled that Bauknecht cannot possess or reside with "any companion animals" pending completion of the case. She must also pay $2,178.98 for the "interim care" of the animals, according to court records. Bauknecht is scheduled for a pre-trial hearing at 2:15 p.m. July 2. "This was a very sad and horrible situation," Fostoria Police Chief Gabe Wedge said. "It's hard to believe someone would do something like this to innocent animals. Officer Sam Putnam did a great job investigating the incident and coordinating resources to try and save the surviving dogs."