Following an investigation, an animal control community service officer in Marysville has submitted 44 charges to prosecutors for an alleged “extreme breeding and hoarding” situation.
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.
Marysville police told KIRO 7 on Sept. 6 that many of the dogs were matted, covered in feces, soaked in urine, and some showed signs of medical distress.
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.
The individual has not been charged yet. It’s unclear if an arrest warrant has been issued.
The dogs are continuing their recovery at Everett Animal Shelter.
According to Marysville police, one of the young dogs became ill last week, prompting concerns of parvovirus among the other dogs. That dog was hospitalized and was released back to the shelter.
As a precaution, the dogs were placed under quarantine.
“The quarantine has remained in place while shelter staff closely monitor the dogs for any additional signs of illness. This necessary precaution temporarily delayed some of their ongoing grooming and care. Shelter staff acted quickly and diligently, and no additional dogs have shown signs of illness,” Marysville police said.
The quarantine is expected to be lifted on Sept. 21.
Once medically cleared, shelter staff will be able to resume removing severe matting, trimming overgrown nails, and continuing the dogs’ individual care.
The Everett Animal Shelter said it has received more than 250 adoption applications. Due to the volume, they are not accepting any more applications for these dogs.
Because the investigation is ongoing, the dogs aren’t available for adoption yet.
If they ever become legally available for adoption, the Everett Animal Shelter will notify the public.
The investigation is ongoing.
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