EVERETT, Wash. — 42 West Highland Terriers that were seized from a Marysville trailer are looking for loving homes.
Everett Animal Shelter says it is working on grooming the dogs, scheduling spay and neuter surgeries, and contacting interested adopters.
“These past couple of weeks have been intense and emotional,” the shelter said. “Many of the dogs arrived heavily matted and covered in urine and feces. Some had never even walked on a leash.”
One dog became ill with parvovirus, which required a quarantine period for the entire group.
“The toll on our shelter and staff has been immense, but your encouragement, donations, and messages from around the world have truly lifted us up,” staff shared.
Groombar and A Pet Spa went to the shetler on Thursday and spent 7 hours caring for the dogs. According to the shelter, the groomers shaved off 14 pounds of matted fur.
“Thank you to everyone who has donated, called, emailed, and sent love our way. Your support makes all the difference, for these Westies and for every animal who comes through our doors,” the shelter said.
On Aug. 31, 42 West Highland Terriers were rescued from a breeding situation out of a trailer in Marysville. Officers also took two other dogs of an unknown breed.
After reviewing initial veterinary reports and individual case summaries, the Marysville Prosecutor’s Office received 43 counts of second-degree animal cruelty and one count related to dog breeding.
A public disclosure request revealed the suspect as 68-year-old Lance Blodgett.
Body camera footage obtained by KIRO 7 shows Marysville police interacting with Blodgett as officers worked to take the dogs to the Everett Animal Shelter.
Blodgett reveals on body cam video that the dogs travel with him between Idaho and Washington, and that he comes to Washington to look for work and care for his ill father.
At one point, an officer is heard on camera asking Blodgett if he can take care of all the dogs.
Blodgett replied: “No, I was going to head back to Idaho, and there’s a place on the border where you know people buy dogs or sell dogs or give them away or whatever.”
Marysville Police confirmed Blodgett was not arrested on August 31 because they needed more evidence, and he was not deemed a threat to the public.
Blodgett is scheduled to be arraigned on October 7 for animal cruelty charges.