Mesquite Animal Shelter officers seize 77 dogs

Mesquite NV, May 18, 2026 — Over the past several months,
The Mesquite Police Department and Mesquite Animal Control officers responded to
multiple complaints regarding a local home housing an excessive number of dogs.
During these contacts the suspect, who was the owner of the dogs, was found to be in
violation of Mesquite City animal ordinances and was issued multiple citations. After
failing to comply with the cited violations, Giustino Laudando was arrested on two
separate occasions on warrants related to those offenses.
Earlier this year, Laudando was evicted from his residence. At that time, he indicated he
would be leaving the state with the animals. However, officers learned that he remained
in the area, residing on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) property outside of city
limits.
On May 15, Laundando returned to the City of Mesquite, where he was contacted by
Mesquite Police and Animal Control Officers and again cited for violations related to
animal welfare and city code compliance. During that contact, officers and Animal
Control personnel located and recovered a total of 77 dogs from a Laudando’s RV.
Due to the conditions in which the animals were found, many require extensive medical
attention. Several of the dogs were determined to be pregnant, and as of this morning,
one dog has given birth to four puppies, bringing the total number of animals in care to
81.
The Mesquite Animal Shelter is actively working to provide medical treatment, nutrition,
and safe housing for all recovered animals. Due to the high number of animals and the
level of care required, the shelter is experiencing a significant strain on its physical and
financial resources. As the shelter continues providing critical care for these animals,
community donations would be sincerely appreciated.
The Mesquite Police Department and Animal Control remain committed to ensuring the
safety, care, and wellbeing of every animal in our community.