Press Release  MDAR Fines Rural T.A.N.K. Rescue for Unlicensed Operation and Transporting Sick Canines into Massachusetts

Boston — The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources’ (MDAR) Division of Animal Health has issued a $4,500 fine to Rural T.A.N.K. Rescue, an organization based in Southern Texas, for continuing to operate as an unlicensed animal rescue organization. MDAR issued a cease-and-desist order on June 30, 2021, following an investigation that found Rural T.A.N.K. Rescue operating without a license and importing a group of puppies into Massachusetts that tested positive for canine parvovirus. Canine parvovirus is a highly infectious disease in dogs, frequently fatal in puppies. Rural T.A.N.K. Rescue’s recent activities include the importation of dogs with falsified health certifications, adopting dogs with undisclosed behavior problems, and placing a puppy with an adopter that died within 16 hours of arrival.

“Responsible and licensed animal rescue organizations provide a critical service by connecting potential pet owners with companion animals in need,” said MDAR Commissioner Ashley Randle. “When bad actors operate in the shadows to avoid the regulations that are in place to safeguard the health and welfare of domestic animals, the results are often heartbreaking and completely avoidable for those who are looking to adopt. We’re letting the public know about this organization in order to prevent further tragedies from happening.”

Massachusetts residents seeking to adopt pets from private animal shelters and rescues should check first to ensure the organization is licensed to operate in the Commonwealth.  A list of all licensed organizations can be found on MDAR’s website: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/approved-shelter-and-rescue-organizations.

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