Judge: woman has to post bond to get dogs

A Fulton woman who had 137 animals confiscated from her home has to improve conditions before getting back two of her dogs, according to a Callaway County judge.

Judge Sue Crane said she will have 30 days to post her bond, but according to Melissa Baxter it is too much money.

Baxter, 50, appeared in court Friday morning and told the judge she wanted at least two of her dogs back. Baxter said her animals help her combat her ongoing depression.

“I fight depression. I make myself get up and pull up my boot straps,” she said. “Just keep going. I have to; they were my reason.”

Tina Barnes, an animal control supervisor, testified in the hearing and described the environment at Baxter’s home as a “very disgusting living environment.”

Police searched Baxter’s property on Grand Avenue on July 26 after neighbors complained of a strong smell coming from the residence.

The animals were sent to Grabb Animal Shelter in Fulton where they have been checked by veterinarians.

Those wanting to adopt any of the animals, Fulton police officials advised to contact the animal shelter and speak with Barnes.