EVERETT—The Everett Animal Shelter says the 42 dogs, seized by Marysville PD from severe breeding-hoarding conditions last month, have now been officially released to its care, allowing staff to begin full grooming, schedule spay/neuter surgeries and start contacting interested adopters. This step marks a significant milestone toward placing the dogs in safe, permanent homes.
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Shelter officials expressed deep gratitude for the community’s response, noting that donations, messages and support from across the country have helped sustain staff through the most challenging weeks of care.
The Marysville Police Department continues to work closely with the Everett Animal Shelter as care progresses for the 44 dogs seized on Aug. 31 in an animal‑cruelty investigation. The group includes 42 West Highland White Terriers and two additional dogs removed from severely neglected conditions. The owner, Lance Blodgett is charged with a gross misdemeanor punishable by a maximum of 365 days in jail and/or fine up to $5000 for each dog.
According to the Everett Animal Shelter, many of the dogs arrived heavily matted, urine‑soaked and covered in feces, with several showing signs of medical distress. Some had never been walked on a leash. Shortly after intake, one dog tested positive for parvovirus, prompting a full quarantine period for all 44 dogs. Shelter staff report that the medical, behavioral and sanitation demands have been “intense and emotional,” underscoring the impact on personnel and resources.
The shelter also extends appreciation to Groombar Marysville, WA and A Pet Spa, whose teams volunteered seven hours of intensive grooming at the shelter this week. Together, they removed 14 pounds of mats in one day, bringing the total to 25 pounds and providing immediate relief while improving the dogs’ comfort and mobility.
The Westies rescued on August 31 continue to make progress, but they still have a long road ahead as they recover in the care of the Everett Animal Shelter.
Recovery Update
The dogs continue to recover well and are being closely monitored by the veterinary team at the Everett Animal Shelter.
Last week, one of the young adult females became ill, prompting concerns about parvovirus (PARVO). She required hospitalization but has since recovered and is now back at the shelter. Following the PARVO concern, all of the Westies were placed under quarantine as a precaution to protect them and the other animals at the shelter. The quarantine has remained in place while shelter staff closely monitor the dogs for any additional signs of illness. This necessary precaution temporarily delayed some of their ongoing grooming and care. Shelter staff acted quickly and diligently, and no additional dogs have shown signs of illness. The quarantine is expected to be lifted on September 21. Once medically cleared, shelter staff will be able to resume the meticulous work of removing severe matting, trimming overgrown nails, and continuing the dogs’ individual care.
Adoption and Shelter Information
The public response to the Westies has been overwhelming. The Everett Animal Shelter has received more than 250 adoption applications, along with an overwhelming number of phone inquiries, and is no longer accepting applications for these dogs.
Because this remains an active and ongoing case, the dogs are not currently available for adoption. If and when the dogs become legally available for adoption, the Everett Animal Shelter will notify the public. The anticipated end of the medical quarantine does not mean the dogs will immediately become available for adoption.
In the meantime, those wishing to help are encouraged to consider adopting an animal currently available for a home, becoming a foster or volunteer, or donating to support the animals in the shelter’s care.
Case Update
After receiving the initial veterinary reports and completing individual case summaries involving the 44 dogs, Community Service Officer Joie Mette has submitted the following charges to the Marysville Prosecutor’s Office:
43 counts of Animal Cruelty in the Second Degree under RCW 16.52.207(2)(a) and one count related to dog breeding under RCW 16.52.310(2).
The Marysville Police Department remains committed to protecting animals from inhumane conditions and holding individuals accountable for violations of Washington’s animal cruelty laws. We are grateful to the Everett Animal Shelter staff and veterinary team for their continued dedication and extensive work caring for these dogs.
Additional information will be released as the investigation and the dogs’ recovery progress.
Source: Marysville PD
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
