On September 21, 2026, Pierce County Sheriff’s Animal Control responded to complaints regarding a property reportedly operating a dog rescue under deplorable conditions. When Animal Control arrived, they discovered 15 dogs (two with injuries) confined to small crates inside a garage, with no access to food or water. Deputies also observed signs indicating that some of the dogs had likely been confined to their crates for extended periods of time.
Inside a second garage, Animal Control located two cats confined to cages without access to clean food or water. It appeared the cats had been without proper food and water for approximately five days.
On September 22, 2026, a warrant was obtained to remove all 15 dogs and two cats from the property. The animals were safely removed and transported to a licensed rescue, where they will receive proper care, food, water, and medical attention as needed.
The individuals at the residence did not have a kennel license and did not have the resources necessary to properly operate an animal rescue. There are limits on the number of animals a household can keep without obtaining the proper licensing. In Pierce County, households are generally limited to five dogs and cats combined. If you plan to keep more than the allowed number of animals, additional licensing or permitting may be required.
If you are considering operating a rescue, foster program, kennel, or otherwise caring for a large number of animals, make sure you understand and follow the applicable licensing and animal welfare requirements before bringing additional animals into your care. These requirements help ensure that animals have adequate space, food, water, shelter, and proper care.
Animal cruelty charges in this case will be forwarded to the prosecutor’s office for review.
We are grateful to our Animal Control team for stepping in and giving these animals a chance to receive the care they deserve.