Lila Peterson of rural Bismarck says a slump in sales has led to her having 75 Chihuahuas in her basement.

"I have too many," she said."I know that."

Peterson said she has given away about 30 dogs and has 25 more to give to good homes. She also sells Chihuahuas.

"I've got to be picky about who I give them away to," she said. "I've been giving them to good homes, but I refuse to give them to bad homes."

She said she doesn't want the animals to go to a pound where they may be put to sleep, either.

Assistant State Veterinarian Jesse Vollmer, with the North Dakota Board of Animal Health, alerted the Burleigh County Sheriff's Department to Peterson's home, Burleigh County Sheriff's Lt. Nick Sevart said.

Deputy State Veterinarian Beth Carlson said she believed Vollmer was alerted to the situation by a concerned citizen asking for investigation. Vollmer did not return a message seeking comment Friday afternoon.

Sevart said deputies went to the home north of Bismarck where Peterson lives with her family on Thursday afternoon. Deputies noticed a strong odor upon walking in the door, he said.

Peterson took the deputies downstairs, where there are several wooden kennels, Sevart said. He said the deputies reported the dogs, consisting of full-grown Chihuahuas and puppies, had adequate food and water and appeared to be in good health.

"They are well cared for," Peterson said.

Sevart said the case has been forwarded to detectives for further investigation.

Peterson said she has taken in stray Chihuahuas and found homes for them. She gives grown dogs away and sells puppies, though she said she has given away puppies to children with illnesses.

Peterson, who is not a licensed breeder, said she usually keeps around 30 of the small dogs in her home at any time. She is not breeding any animals right now. She said the dogs have plenty of space to run around in her home.

"I just love Chihuahuas," she said. "My dogs are happy dogs."

Peterson said anyone wishing to adopt one of the 25 adult Chihuahuas she has to give away can call her at 214-3299. She said she also has four Chihuahua puppies for sale. Other puppies at her home are too small to sell right now, she said.

(Reach reporter Jenny Michael at 250-8225 or jenny.michael@bismarcktribune.com.)