"ASPCA will assess seized dogs"

From the Daily Press [Virginia]:

"In order to provide the court with complete information about the characteristics of the dogs and the available options, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has contracted with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) to conduct an assessment of the dogs," the Attorney's Office news release said.

The society will lead a team of animal-behavior experts and, based on those evaluations, recommendations will be made to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The evaluations should be completed within about three weeks, and the government will recommend to the court what to do with the dogs.

"The public can be assured that careful consideration will be given to the ultimate disposition of the dogs involved in this matter," the statement said.

Also: ASPCA Reveals Its Role in Federal Investigation.

The U. S. Attorney’s office revealed the assistance provided by the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) in its investigation: ASPCA Forensic Veterinarian, Dr. Melinda Merck, participated in the excavation of the graves and examination of the remains. Further details cannot be provided at this time.

Read the entire press release here.