Help keeps pouring in for the nearly 600 dogs rescued last month in Snohomish and Skagit counties as part of an expanding puppy mill investigation.
Tons of dog food, veterinary medicine, blankets, towels, toys and thousands of dollars have been donated to shelters in Everett and Skagit County, officials said.
“The generous action of people in our community has just been outstanding,” Everett city spokeswoman Kate Reardon said. The city operates the Everett Animal Shelter, where about 160 dogs are being cared for after being seized Jan. 16 from wretched conditions in a home near Gold Bar.
The investigation also led to a Mount Vernon-area kennel where about 450 dogs were rescued. Animal cruelty charges have been filed against people living in both counties.
The dogs haven’t been made available for adoption. Additional time is needed before interested families can apply to take make the dogs household pets.
That hasn’t stopped people from lending a helping hand.
Today, a group from Oso Lumber in Arlington plans to drop off donations at the Everett shelter, the company’s controller, Jackie Wark, said.
An employee at the business with a “big heart for animals” decided to ask co-workers and customer to help the rescued dogs.
“It’s tough when times are tough. You feel you want to do more, but it’s good to know there are people out there willing to do what they can,” Wark said. “Hopefully it can motivate some other people to do the same.”
Now, a group of volunteers has planned a daylong fundraiser called the “Furry Friends Festival.”
The dog-friendly event, complete with musical acts, a silent auction, food and more is scheduled for Feb. 21 in Everett, organizer KC Cunningham said.
The Lynnwood woman, 44, has two dogs, Duke and Dutch. She said the story of the abused dogs moved her.
She said she hopes the event will raise at least $20,000. Hundreds of volunteers have come forward to donate auction items, time and talent.
Snohomish performer Tim Noah has agreed to provide entertainment, Cunningham said.
“It’s growing and growing and growing,” she said. “We’re very excited that the animals will get the help they need.”
Reporter Jackson Holtz: 425-339-3437 or jholtz@heraldnet.com.
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