Founder of DeKalb County Dog Rescue Charged With 12 Animal Cruelty Counts

The founder of a well-known dog rescue in DeKalb County has been charged with a dozen counts of animal cruelty following a law enforcement investigation into the conditions at her facility.

Cara Seiler, who started and leads Canine Haven Rescue in Waterloo, is facing 12 misdemeanor charges alleging that she knowingly or recklessly neglected dogs in her care.

According to court records, DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office animal control officers visited Seiler’s home earlier this month as part of an investigation into the rescue. During the visit, officers observed strong ammonia odors and unsanitary conditions in a garage where roughly 18 dogs were being kept. Many of the animals were allegedly surrounded by urine and feces, with few having access to food or water, and some being fed expired food.

Officials told Seiler the garage was unsafe for the animals and indicated the poor conditions likely existed for many months or even years. Court documents note that several dogs had spent four to six years confined to cages with little quality of life.

Seiler reportedly pleaded with officers not to remove the dogs, saying her rescue was her life and that she didn’t want to face trouble over the situation. Officers required the surrender of about half the dogs; Seiler was allowed to retain a few puppies and well-cared-for pets provided they remained inside her home.

A local humane organization later transported a total of 21 dogs from Seiler’s garage and a foster home. Many of the animals were found to have health issues such as heartworm and dental disease, and lacked current vaccinations. Seiler acknowledged awareness of some health problems but did not administer appropriate treatments, according to the officer’s reports.

Prosecutors allege Seiler’s neglect of 12 dogs met the legal standard for Class A misdemeanor animal cruelty charges. The case is ongoing in DeKalb Superior Court