A dog and several neglected reptiles were rescued from a Pierce County home after deputies found them abandoned in deplorable conditions.
The case began Sunday, April 12, when a homeowner reported that former renters had abandoned animals inside the residence before leaving, according to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office. (Watch video of the rescue below.)
Deputies obtained a warrant and entered the home, where they found a dog confined to a bedroom without access to food or water, the agency said. Investigators said it is unclear how long the animal had been left alone.
Inside the same room, deputies found multiple reptiles in aquariums. Two bearded dragons and a gecko were dead, with one reptile appearing to have been deceased long enough to become mummified, investigators said.
Two additional bearded dragons were found alive but severely underweight and dehydrated, with no food or water in their enclosures, officials said.
The surviving reptiles were taken to a reptile refuge, where they are receiving care and rehabilitation before being placed for adoption. The dog was transported to the Tacoma Humane Society.
Authorities said the dog’s previous owner will have 14 days to come forward and reclaim the animal. If no one claims the dog, it will be made available for adoption.
Investigators plan to forward animal cruelty charges to a prosecutor for review.
“This was a difficult and distressing call, but thanks to the swift actions of Animal Control Officers and the dedication of those who care for animals, these survivors will have the opportunity to recover and be placed in safe, loving homes,” the sheriff’s office said.
Watch video of the rescue here.
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