County animal control authorities are investigating nearly five dozen dogs and about two dozen cats that were seized from two different properties in Landers and Yucca Valley last week.
“We’re still trying to determine if this is a hoarding situation or something else,” said Frank Becerra, of San Bernardino County Animal Care and Control.
Officers are investigating whether any of the 55 dogs and 28 cats may have suffered any major abuse or neglect. Officers received a tip November 2 about issues at two properties in the rural areas of Landers and Yucca Valley, one near Highway 62 and the second near Highway 247, according to Becerra. After arriving at the properties, which are connected to the same investigation, officers seized the dogs and cats. One dead dog was found at one of the properties.
The dogs were brought back to the Devore animal shelter and the cats are being housed at the Yucca Valley shelter. The animals appear to be in good health, but none will be available for adoption until the investigation has concluded, Becerra said. The owner has 10 days from the time the animals were seized to request a hearing to get the dogs and cats back. That deadline expires at the end of this week, he said.
Becerra said as of Wednesday, “We have received no request from the owner.”
COUNTY SEIZES DOZENS OF DOGS AND CATS IN YUCCA VALLEY AND LANDERS
