Over 15 Doodle dogs, many of them puppies, found in Ferndale area. Were they dumped?
At least 15 Doodles between the ages of 5 months and 4 years have been found running stray in the past week in Whatcom County, and Animal Control is looking for another three that were spotted.
A Doodle is a cross between a poodle and another breed. The resulting puppies are Doodles.
Fourteen of the puppies are being cared for at the Whatcom Humane Society, and one is being held in the home of a “good Samaritan,” Laura Clark humane society told The Bellingham Herald in an email.
The puppies were found in poor condition. They are dirty with matted fur and very scared. This condition is very common with a backyard breeding operation, Clark said.
“Sadly, Whatcom County has a large pet overpopulation problem. There are too many people breeding dogs for profit and as long as people keep buying dogs from these types of operations, the problem will only continue,” she said.
The dogs were found at East Hemming Road, Kelly Road, Central Road and Aldergrove, all in or near Ferndale. The first batch of dogs were found Aug. 17, and more were found as recently as Monday, Aug. 28.
The Humane Society is hoping there are people in the community who can provide information on where exactly these dogs came from. The organization is asking people to call in and leave a confidential message, the goal is only to be able to provide help for the dogs.
Clark said the dogs are receiving care and not healthy enough for adoption just yet.
If a large amount of dogs like this get loose like this, it is most likely they were dumped, the result of them no longer being profitable to the breeder, or the breeder was forced to quickly move locations.
“The dogs are being evaluated medically by our veterinary clinic and receiving grooming by our volunteer team. The majority lack socialization and are stressed but are slowly coming around and starting to learn to trust. Currently, they have everything they need while in care,” Clark said.
People looking to help with costs can donate to the organization at its website.
This story was originally published August 29, 2023 at 11:19 AM.
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