CHARLOTTE, N.C. — North Carolina officials shut down a Charlotte pet store after discovering multiple violations, including the deaths of 11 puppies in two months and the sale of sick animals to unsuspecting customers.

The North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services forced Happy Puppy Universe to close after an investigation revealed puppies were being sold with undisclosed medical conditions, according to state documents.

The investigation followed complaints from customers on social media who said they purchased sick puppies from the business, which advertised healthy pets online with professional photos.

After the closure, 38 dogs were transferred to Peanut's Place Rescue, where founder Colleen Sowers said every animal required immediate medical treatment.

"I have p

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