COLUMBUS, OH — Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost has filed a lawsuit against a purported animal welfare nonprofit, alleging the organization was a “sham” used to bankroll a for-profit puppy sale business.
The lawsuit, filed today by the Attorney General’s Charitable Law Section, claims that Dogs to the Rescue—which operated in Knox and Scioto counties—deceived donors by promising that 100% of contributions would go toward finding permanent homes for dogs. Instead, investigators say the funds were diverted to personal bank accounts and a private business.
“It doesn’t take a bloodhound to sniff out this scheme,” Yost said. “When you exploit the generosity of animal lovers to fund a money-making business, you’ve strayed a long way from your charitable mission.”
Massive Salaries, Minimal Work
The filing names the nonprofit alongside board members Nathan Bazler, Sara Bazler, and Opal Mustain, as well as the entity Little Puppies Online.
Despite records showing board members worked an average of only two hours per week, they reportedly paid themselves a staggering combined total of $354,000 in 2022. By the end of that year, the nonprofit’s remaining assets had dwindled to just $42, with no documentation found to justify the massive salary payments.
Links to “Puppy Mill” Allegations
The investigation further revealed that Nathan and Sara Bazler, a married couple residing in Richland County, allegedly used charitable funds to settle debts for their for-profit venture, Maryland Puppies Online.
The Bazlers are no strangers to legal scrutiny regarding their business practices:
- 2022 Maryland Settlement: The couple agreed to shut down their Maryland operations and pay civil penalties following state accusations of violating anti-puppy mill laws.
- Current Operations: The couple currently operates Little Puppies Online in Mount Vernon, Ohio.
Seeking Justice for Donors
The Attorney General is seeking:
- Civil penalties and full restitution of diverted funds.
- Injunctive relief to permanently ban the defendants from soliciting donations or running any charitable organization in the state of Ohio.
The lawsuit serves as a stark reminder for donors to research charities before giving. “Our office is committed to protecting the integrity of charitable donations,” Yost’s office stated, emphasizing that those who exploit the public’s kindness will be held accountable.
