Skagit County authorities are investigating after at least a dozen dead dogs were discovered along the shoreline of Guemes Island, raising disturbing questions about how they ended up there.
At least 12 deceased dogs have been found in and around the waters near Guemes Island over the past week, according to the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies first responded on Thursday, March 26, to reports of six dead canines that had washed ashore on the island. In the days that followed, investigators located five additional dogs along the shoreline, according to the sheriff’s office.
On Tuesday, March 31, another dog was found floating in the La Conner Channel and was recovered by Animal Control.
Authorities said the animals have been submitted to a local veterinarian for forensic necropsy and DNA testing. The results are expected to help determine where the dogs came from and how they died.
At this time, officials have not confirmed the cause of death or whether the cases are connected.
The investigation remains ongoing, and officials say there is limited verified information available.
One local resident claimed the condition of the animals was especially disturbing, alleging that each of the dogs had been skinned and had their front feet removed, citing local fire officials. Puget Press has not independently verified that claim.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office at 360-416-1911 or reach out through Skagit 911.
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