October 17, 2022

Carmen Burth of North Branch has been found guilty of a misdemeanor violation of animal cruelty. Chisago County prosecutors charged her with depriving her horses of necessary food, water, and shelter. Her sentencing will take place in December and she now faces up to a year in jail and $3,000 in fines.

The case began in November 2019, when 11 horses were removed from Burch’s rural property after an investigation by the North Branch Police Department and Animal Humane Society humane investigators. The equines that were removed had body scores between 2 and 3.5 (a score of 5 is optimal). They also suffered from poor dental care, hoof care, and sanitation.

Once removed, the horses were treated for health issues at Anoka Equine Veterinary Services and the University of Minnesota Veterinary Hospital. They were then relocated to Minnesota Hooved Animal Rescue Foundation.

About AHS Humane Agents

Animal Humane Society’s Humane Investigations team is committed to seeking justice for animals throughout Minnesota by investigating reports of animal abuse and neglect, collaborating with law enforcement, and providing training and workshops for agencies, institutions, and community organizations.

AHS humane agents, the only full-time humane investigators in Minnesota, received more than 1,700 reports of neglected or harmed animals in the last year. Working in 87 counties with local law enforcement officials, this team addressed more than 970 cases involving more than 7,000 animals. Learn more about our Humane Investigations team.

Do you know someone who is struggling to care for their pets? 

If you know someone who may have too many pets, or need help in providing appropriate pet care, call the Pet Helpline at 952-435-7738 or send us a message.