T-Bird Farms’ Dog Breeding Kennels Face Supes After 3 Vote Dispute

In Maricopa’s Thunderbird Farms neighborhood, a highly contested case regarding a dog-breeding kennel was addressed by the Pinal County Planning & Zoning Commission on June 19, 2025. The commission sent the matter back to the Board of Supervisors for approval after extensive deliberation.

The commissioners, all in favor, approved special-use permits for Abbott’s German Shepherds, which operates across two properties in the area. Amendments to the stipulations discussed in a May 30 meeting were also approved.

The kennels are located on Jean Drive and Val Vista Road, with the latter site in operation since 1994. This family-run business currently holds a kennel permit, although county regulations typically require at least 5 acres for commercial kennels in suburban ranch zones, where only 3 acres is available.

The case had been remanded due to unapproved stipulations added recently, alongside public opposition highlighted during the hearing. Concerns from local residents regarding the rezoning were prominent.

At the public hearing, discontent surfaced from neighbors. Chad and Katie Buhr, residents adjacent to one of the kennels, raised alarms about noise and potential dangers to their children from the dogs.

Chad Buhr specifically expressed fears that the dogs could jump the fence, even while noting the fencing height. His remarks included strong accusations against the kennel owners, alleging dishonesty.

“There’s been a lot of lies said today… There’s been a lot of deception,” stated Chad Buhr, underscoring the tension between neighbors.

Meanwhile, kennel owner Russ Byers countered, claiming a long-standing vendetta from the Buhrs over an incident involving property-line tree trimming.

In spite of these heated exchanges, P&Z Vice Chair Robert Klob criticized county staff for issuing a kennel permit while the property remained out of compliance with zoning laws.

According to county staff, previous operations had encountered less strict scrutiny due to poor communication among departments.

Following multiple votes, the commissioners made several updates to the stipulations, including amendments related to the number of adult dogs allowed and conditions for revoking permits. This comprehensive review aimed to address neighborly concerns while ensuring compliance with county regulations.

Attempts to reach Abbott’s German Shepherds for further comments were unsuccessful by publication time.