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Judge orders Howling Timbers to give up all wolf dogs

Howling Timbers Animal Sanctuary wolf dog.jpg
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MUSKEGON, Mich. — A judge ordered Howling Timbers Animal Sanctuary to give up all the wolf dogs in its care.

A Muskegon County judge made the ruling on Thursday, citing a number of state law violations the organization has made over the years.

RELATED: Future uncertain for Howling Timbers Animal Sanctuary as owners face charges

The state's investigation into Howling Timbers began in 2020 after reports that one of its wolf dogs injured a child and another volunteer.

MORE: Hearing held on future of Muskegon wolf-dog sanctuary

The owners, Brenda and James Pearson, have 21 days to appeal the judge's decision.

It's unclear exactly what'll happen to the animals in their care.

Howling Timbers began operating in the early 1990s as one of the few places in Michigan able to take in wolf dogs. Their operations and efforts have grown over the years, particularly after Michigan state law changed in 2000, making it illegal to own any sort of dog-wolf cross as a residential pet.

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