Recovery Update on 42 Westies Saved From Severe Breeding‑hoarding Conditions

The Maryvsille Police Department shared an update on 42 dogs saved from severe breeding-horading conditions:

WESTIES RESCUE – RECOVERY AND CASE UPDATE

The Westies rescued on August 31 continue to make progress, but they still have a long road ahead as they recover in the care of the Everett Animal Shelter.

Recovery Update

The dogs continue to recover well and are being closely monitored by the veterinary team at the Everett Animal Shelter.

Last week, one of the young adult females became ill, prompting concerns about parvovirus (PARVO). She required hospitalization but has since recovered and is now back at the shelter.

Following the PARVO concern, all of the Westies were placed under quarantine as a precaution to protect them and the other animals at the shelter. 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.

The quarantine is expected to be lifted on September 21. Once medically cleared, shelter staff will be able to resume the meticulous work of removing severe matting, trimming overgrown nails, and continuing the dogs’ individual care.

Adoption and Shelter Information

The public response to the Westies has been overwhelming. The Everett Animal Shelter has received more than 250 adoption applications, along with an overwhelming number of phone inquiries, and is no longer accepting applications for these dogs.

Because this remains an active and ongoing case, the dogs are not currently available for adoption. If and when the dogs become legally available for adoption, the Everett Animal Shelter will notify the public. The anticipated end of the medical quarantine does not mean the dogs will immediately become available for adoption.

In the meantime, those wishing to help are encouraged to consider adopting an animal currently available for a home, becoming a foster or volunteer, or donating to support the animals in the shelter’s care.

Case Update

After receiving the initial veterinary reports and completing individual case summaries involving the 44 dogs, Community Service Officer Joie Mette has submitted the following charges to the Marysville Prosecutor’s Office:

• 43 counts of Animal Cruelty in the Second Degree under RCW 16.52.207(2)(a) and one count related to dog breeding under RCW 16.52.310(2).

The Marysville Police Department remains committed to protecting animals from inhumane conditions and holding individuals accountable for violations of Washington’s animal cruelty laws. They are grateful to the Everett Animal Shelter staff and veterinary team for their continued dedication and extensive work caring for these dogs.

Additional information will be released as the investigation and the dogs’ recovery progress.