Dogs, horses, cats found living in filth near Enumclaw

King County authorities went to two properties in the Enumclaw area Tuesday to investigate reports of animal cruelty and found 40 dogs, 19 horses and a few feral cats in various stages of neglect.

None of the animals could be classified as in imminent danger from malnutrition, according to veterinarians assisting sheriff's detectives and officers with Regional Animal Services of King County, but many of the dogs were locked up in dark, dirty horse stalls, and nearly all of the horses were standing in their own waste, according to King County Sheriff's Department spokesman Sgt. John Urquhart.

The woman who owns both properties surrendered five of the dogs, but investigators did not think there was sufficient cause to take the other animals, according to Urquhart.

Regional Animal Services began to investigate after being told that the woman either owned or was boarding several malnourished and endangered horses and that there were dogs and cats living in the same conditions.

Investigators believe the woman was taking in unwanted horses and dogs, but became overwhelmed and unable to properly care for all of them.

Warrants were served Tuesday on the two properties, located in the 39500 block of 208th Avenue Southeast and the 40600 block of 212th Avenue Southeast.

The owner faces fines from Regional Animal Services for licensing violations. Detectives will continue to investigate for possible criminal violations.