After countless violations over the last two years, the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office removed 131 dogs from a dog breeding operation near Riverside. 

Sunset Valley Farm, located at 540th street north of Riverside, is owned by Loren Yoder. Yoder, along with fellow Riverside dog-breeder Lloyd Yoder, have built a reputation for poor conditions and care for their animals. 

Loren Yoder received violations from the USDA in the first, second, and third quarters of last year with the most recent report describing dogs and their puppies confined in a whelping barn with temperatures in the 90’s, outdoor runs with excessive holes leaving the potential for injury, and insufficient personnel. Only three individuals, including Loren and Lloyd Yoder were providing care to all 131 animals. 

Additional violations pertaining to pest control, housing facilities, vet care, and failure to maintain medical records landed the Yoders on the 2022 Horrible Hundred report from the Humane Society. The list details problem puppy breeders and dealers across the United States. Loren Yoder also appeared on the report in 2019. 

The dogs, meanwhile, are in the custody of Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center. As they continue to receive care, plans are to begin opening up adoption in the next few weeks. No criminal charges have been filed, as the investigation is ongoing.