BELLEVUE, Wash. — Dozens of malnourished dogs found on a Mason County property Sunday have been moved to a shelter and are now receiving care at local shelters, despite many shelters across the state reaching full capacity.
On Sunday, 67 malnourished dogs and a horse were found on a woman’s property in the woods, according to sheriff's deputies. Some dogs had to be immediately hospitalized as they were on the brink of starvation, according to authorities.
But on Tuesday, all of the dogs finally got what they deserve: a new "leash" on life.
"Already this morning we know we had a number of calls from people who said, ‘Have you gotten any Mason County dogs in? We’re interested in adopting one of them,'" said Brandon Macz, spokesperson for Seattle Humane.
By evening Tuesday, sheriff's deputies said all 67 of the dogs have been removed from the Grapeview property, and are now in shelters. An officer told us that a "large list" of Washington shelters collaborated to ensure the dogs were cared for.
Seattle Humane was able to take in 14 of those malnourished dogs, and PAWS took in four others, said Macz. But it also means they’ll finally get the things that all dogs deserve: medical care, cuddles, and the sustenance they badly need to survive.
The woman who kept the dogs at the Mason County property could face charges by Wednesday afternoon at the latest. The dogs are undergoing forensic exams so that the veterinarians can collect evidence of the alleged abuse.
"They’ve all been very sweet and gentle," said Macz.
In the wake of the arrest, animal advocates said they were concerned about where exactly they could place the dogs, due to limited shelter space across Washington.
Room is hard to come by these days.
"A lot of people who have pets right now may be struggling to keep those pets, right? And then they might not be able to accommodate bringing in another family member at this time," said Macz.
But the dogs can sleep well this evening knowing that tomorrow, they’ll wake up feeling safe — and with a meal in their bellies.
Macz said the intake process will likely take some time, considering that this is a criminal investigation. For that reason, and because of their medical needs, the dogs will not be available for adoption right away. However, he said to keep checking Seattle Humane's social media pages and website in the coming weeks if you're interested in adopting one.
Another way you can help with life-saving supplies for these dogs is by donating, said Macz.
In the meantime, the horse found on the suspect's property is receiving care from local nonprofit Pasado’s Safe Haven, deputies said.