Animal control official warned kennel owner of poor conditions

County animal control officers seized 283 dogs from Thornton's kennel in February. Many of the animals were emaciated, had untreated cuts and were housed in filthy conditions, authorities said.

Thornton turned herself in to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office in April and was later released on $10,000 unsecured bond, according to her attorney, Billy Strickland.

Scally noted the dogs were in poor physical condition and many had eye infections. The kennel also had a strong smell of feces and urine.

Dr. Lisa Dixon, a veterinarian who helped with the removal of the dogs, also testified about the smells being over-powering through her respirator mask.

Dixon was one of the first people to check the animals. She said many of the dogs had scalding marks on their skin from severe matting. About 20 of the dogs were of normal weight, the others were too thin.

Prosecutors aired video taken of the dogs in kennels at Thornton's home and some of their injuries as veterinarians inspected them.

The 12 animal cruelty charges pertain to the seized dogs with the most serious injuries or health problems. The investigation and the removal of the dogs cost taxpayers about $100,000, Scally said.

Members of the North Carolina Humane Society attended Wednesday's trial.

Amanda Arrington, the director of the N.C. Humane Society, said she is hoping Thornton is found guilty “to show that the way these dogs were living was substandard and we're not going to accept it.”

State law does not govern puppy mills, although some state lawmakers want legislation that would regulate them.