GOLD BAR – More than 150 dogs were seized Friday evening from a suspected puppy mill after a tip led authorities to find the animals living in what they called “deplorable conditions.”
The animals were found throughout a home on the 43000 block of May Creek Road, south of Wallace Falls State Park. Eighty-seven of the dogs were living in a converted attic.
Many of the dogs were small breeds: Yorkshire terrier, rat terrier, West Highland white terrier, Chinese crested, pug, dachshund, Pekingese and mixed breeds known as “designer dogs.”
Dogs were found in crates and small pens that were overflowing with waste.
Several dead puppies were found in a freezer, Snohomish County Animal Control Services spokeswoman Vicki Lubrin said in a press release.
Used syringes and medications were found scattered in front of pens and in a refrigerator. Many of the dogs were covered with fleas, sores and tumors.
The smell emanating from feces and urine was so strong it could be detected well outside the residence. A large commercial dumpster that stood in the yard was overflowing with waste.
A detailed breeding plan was posted on a wall inside the house. People who buy puppies from mills are often sold animals with hereditary defects, chronic illnesses and diseases, Lubrin said.
No arrests were reported as of Sunday morning.
The dogs, along with four cats and three parrots, were taken to the Everett Animal Shelter. Anyone interested in donating dog food or money to cover the medical expenses can contact the Everett Animal Shelter at 2732 36th St. in Everett or call 425-257-6000.
Reporter Justin Arnold: 425-339-3432 or jarnold@heraldnet.com.
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