In Pierce County, Washington, a complaint had been received on April 12 referencing tenants who had abandoned animals in the home before the property was returned to the owners. According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, a dog had been left in one of the bedrooms along with several reptiles in aquariums.
A warrant was served and both sheriff officers and representatives from animal control entered the house to rescue the pets left behind. As Animal control officers entered the home, the interior had been reported to be in deplorable condition.
A black and white dog found in the back bedroom had no access to food or water except for cookies that had been left behind. It is not known how long the dog had been alone. In the same room, there were aquarium tanks with two deceased bearded dragons and a gecko that had already been mummified; indicating they had been deceased for an unknown period of time.
According to officers, the dog most likely survived because of the cookies.
The remaining two bearded dragons were still alive, but were extremely underweight and dehydrated. No food or water was available in any of the enclosures. The reptiles were moved to a refuge where they will be given the care and nutrition needed in order to recover. When healthy, they will be made available for adoption.
The young dog is now under the care of Tacoma Humane Society, where his previous owner has 14 days to petition to reclaim him. If the owner does not come forward, the dog will be made available for adoption.
Charges for animal cruelty will be forwarded to a prosecutor for review. The owner of the dog and the reptiles has not been made public.
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