A Boone County judge will hear arguments this morning on whether a Columbia dog breeder accused of animal abuse should get a lower bond and a new trial location.

26-year-old Melissa Sanders faces 29 felony counts of animal abuse after investigators found several dead dogs at her business, Magnum Opus German Shepherds, in November.

Sanders remains held without bond in the Phelps County Jail.

Her attorney argues she’s not a flight risk and that the charges are bailable.

Prosecutors disagree, citing her ties to Texas and opposing a venue change, saying it was filed too late.

The hearing begins at 8:30 this morning at the Boone County Courthouse.