Dozens of animals removed from Fond du Lac County property

TOWN OF FRIENDSHIP -- Fond du Lac County officials removed dozens of animals in various stages of starvation from a home in the Town of Friendship Thursday, May 10th. Some of the animals discovered on the property along Chestnut Rd. were already dead.

In all, officials removed 65 dogs and 50 goats from the property. The Fond du Lac Humane Society euthanized two dogs that could not be saved.

Investigators say they found the property because of a wayward calf. It had strayed onto Highway 45 near the Winnebago County line late Wednesday night, May 9th. A deputy took the calf to the property to determine if it belonged there. The deputy discovered a 10-year-old boy was the only person in the home. He also found dead goats at the farm and more than 60 dogs scattered around the property.

Officials say the property is run by Donald Smidt and Denise Cwiok and is home to Howl'n Winds Siberians. The business has apparently been breeding and showing champion Siberian huskies since 1985.

Charges of animal neglect will be forwarded to the Fond du Lac County District Attorney's Office.

The Fond du Lac County Department of Social Services took the young boy into custody. It's not clear whether there will be charges filed as it relates to the child.

The Fond du Lac County Humane Society has already been in contact with humane societies across the state for help with placement. They're also asking the public for help. If you're interested in one of these 69 dogs, you can contact the Fond du Lac County Humane society at 920-922-8873.

CLICK HERE for more on the dogs from the Fond du Lac County Humane Society's website.