Christensen: Dog Raid Ruined Reputation

TURNER COUNTY, SD - The Humane Society of the United States and Second Chance Rescue Center raided Christensen's farm nearly a year ago, taking all his hunting dogs. A judge decided the raid was illegal, but Christensen says he wants more than his dogs back.

Dan Christensen says when the Humane Society of United States and Second Chance Rescue Center took his dogs, they also took his name as a reputable breeder. 

"It's our reputation.  We sold a lot of pups by word of mouth.  This has tarnished our name," Christensen said.

Christensen wants to find out where all the dogs are but doubts he'll get them back.

Breeding hunting dogs was his life and main source of income. He's had to sell land that's been in the family for almost 40 years to make ends meet. 

"They took everything we had.  It's been tough," Christensen said. 

Christensen only has a handful of hunting dogs left, but because the raid financially ruined him, he says he's done raising dogs.

"I don't know, what do you do? I'm done with the dogs.  It's not worth it.  Who's to say once you get started back up they won't do it again," Christensen said.

So for now, he'll continue putting pressure on the county to hold someone accountable for what's happened. 

"I'd like to see someone pay for what they've done," Christensen said.

Christensen is still deciding whether to file a civil suit. But in the meantime, he's been traveling the country telling his story to other dog breeders and organizations.