Derbe “Skip” Eckhart, owner of Almost Heaven (Hell) Kennels, as he was leaving court earlier this year. Is finally he out of the puppymill business after yesterday’s raid?
Last week we finally saw the firing of long-term dog law enforcment employee who was the former dog warden/supervisor, Rick Martrich, and now today we finally saw the closing of the infamous Almost Heaven (Hell) Kennels located in Emmaus, PA. Can it be true?
The HSUS and the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement raided Almost Heaven Kennels at noon today after Eckhart’s last ditch attempt to have his kennel license reinstated was denied by the Commonwealth Court. At least 250 dogs were seized and all but 25 were taken to the Harrisburg Farm Complex. Eckhart is allowed to keep 25 dogs without a kennel license.
According to Chris Ryder, spokesperson for the Dep’t of Agriculture, on Ch. 69 News, he said Eckhart is shut down for good. This is the end of the road for him. The new law that was passed last October was the reason they were finally able to shut this hell-hole down. A mixture of breeds were shown to be taken away. I remember seeing some of those familiar faces as I sat in a court hearing for Eckhart months ago and was so angry at this “man” who was seated feet away from me. Eckhart has no regards or feelings for the dogs he breeds and abuses. Never has.
I am extremely happy that this place is finally shut down. After decades of this place remaining open despite Eckhart being charged with animal cruelty, this place is no longer. The dogs are free!! These dogs won’t have to suffer at the hands of this known animal abuser any longer.
But, there are those lingering doubts in my mind. Yes, it’s true, Eckhart can no longer hold a kennel license in the state of PA. However, since this all Eckhart knows how to do, what are the chances of him moving to another state and opening up another kennel? It has happened before and I’m afraid it will again. So while I’m happy,I also am aware of the reality with someone like Eckhart.
When asked about the 25 dogs he is allowed to keep, Ryder said they will keep a close eye on him. Supposedly they were keeping a close eye on him the past few months and still disregarded the rules. He boarded dogs when he wasn’t supposed to and he bred at least one female when it was made clear he wasn’t allowed to. So what will stop him from doing whatever he wants again? Nothing seems to stop this arrogant, narcissistic man.
I am thrilled the dogs are free and hope and pray Eckhart will stay out of the puppymill business for good but I won’t hold my breath. FYI – his website is still up and running and it still states it stands tall and proud!