15 dogs, 2 cats removed from unlicensed animal rescue in Puyallup

Authorities removed 15 dogs and two cats from what were described as “deplorable conditions” at an unlicensed animal rescue at a Puyallup home on Tuesday.

Complaints about the home in the 10800 block of 57th Street East in Puyallup came in on Monday.

On Tuesday, authorities returned with a warrant to remove the animals.

The dogs were confined to small crates in a garage without access to food or water. Two dogs were injured, according to a post on the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) Facebook page. In a second garage, authorities also found two cats in cages and believe they had not had proper food or water for approximately five days.

All 17 animals were taken to a licensed animal rescue where they will receive food, water and medical care.

“The individuals at the residence did not have a kennel license and did not have the resources necessary to properly operate an animal rescue,” the post said. “There are limits on the number of animals a household can keep without obtaining the proper licensing.”

Pierce County households are generally limited to five dogs and cats combined, according to the post. Keeping more than five may require a license or permit.

“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,” the post said. “These requirements help ensure that animals have adequate space, food, water, shelter, and proper care.”

PCSO is forwarding the case to the prosecutor’s office for review.

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