INDIANAPOLIS – A decision was released by the City Controller's Office and effective immediately, Nut & Butt Puppys operating license has been revoked.
Hoosier Branigin, Inc. began operating a pet store known as Nut & Butt Puppys on November 6, 2002 at 7225 US 31 South in Indianapolis, Indiana. With less than one month in operation, Indianapolis Animal Care & Control received complaints from citizens concerning the unsanitary conditions of the store and the poor health of the pets being sold.
On December 2, 2002, Indianapolis Animal Care & Control opened an investigation into the store's practices and procedures and at that time, the owner, Angela Cummins was issued citations for 59 violations of Section 531-401 of the Revised Code (care and treatment) and one violation of Chapter 836 of the Revised Code (pet store license).
After several reinspections and the pet store's incompliance, Indianapolis Animal Care & Control seized the twenty remaining puppies at the store on December 19th.
On January 3, 2003, a hearing was held to determine further suspension or revocation of the store's license. At the hearing, Investigator Bippus and ten private citizens testified to the conditions of the licensed premises and the animals they observed and/or purchased.
Hoosier Branigin, Inc. has the right, pursuant to Section 801-434 of the Revised Code, to appeal this decision to the License Review Board. To appeal this decision, the Licensee must send the City Controller's Office written notice of its intent by registered or certified mail or may deliver the notice in person. The Controller's Office must receive this written notice by 5:00pm on Wednesday, January 30, 2003, or it will forfeit its right to appeal.
On February 12th, Hoosier Branigin has a hearing set to evaluate the care and treatment violations. Also at the hearing, restitution for customers of Nut & Butt Puppys will also be addressed.