More than 50 animals were removed from a Poulsbo-area property this week, triggering an urgent call for foster homes and volunteers as local shelters scramble to handle the influx.
The Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office assisted animal control officers in seizing 57 animals from a home in unincorporated Poulsbo on Tuesday, March 17, according to the agency.
The rescue included more than 20 dogs, along with pigs and other animals found on the property.
Kitsap Animal Control is investigating the case alongside the Kitsap County Department of Development, according to officials.
The large-scale seizure has quickly strained local shelter capacity. The Kitsap Humane Society announced it will close both admissions and adoptions to focus on caring for the incoming animals.
“This is a very fluid situation, and these animals deserve our attention,” the humane society said in a statement.
Shelter officials said space is now extremely limited, especially for stray animals and owner surrenders. Community members are being asked to avoid bringing in lost pets unless absolutely necessary.
“Bringing a lost pet to the Humane Society should be a last resort,” the organization said.
The shelter is urging residents to help reunite pets with owners by checking nearby neighborhoods and using community resources before turning to the shelter system.
Officials also emphasized that many of the rescued dogs require evaluation and veterinary care, adding pressure to an already stretched system.
To make room, the humane society has moved many existing dogs into foster homes and temporary kenneling, including assistance from Peninsula Pet Lodge locations in Olalla and Gig Harbor.
The organization is asking for immediate help from the public, including foster families and dog-walking volunteers, as it works to care for the animals.
More information on how to help is available through the Kitsap Humane Society website.
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