Some of neglected dogs put down
Tuesday, January 28, 2003 10:13 AM PST
By Associated Press
Printable version
E-mail this articleVALE, Ore. (AP) -- More than 100 sick and malnourished dogs were euthanized at an animal shelter over the weekend after they were removed from a rural home near Harper in southeastern Oregon.
Malheur County officials found 492 dogs at the rental home of Robert and Barbara Erickson late last week. The 113 animals that were destroyed were in the worst condition, although some dogs died as deputies removed them from the home, officials said.
Sheriff's deputies returned Monday to remove 10 more animals that hid from deputies last week. The dogs "had dug holes and had a pretty good tunnel network" under the home and yard, said Malheur County District Attorney Dan Norris.
Barbara Erickson, 76, was arraigned Monday on allegations of criminal mischief and more than 500 counts of second-degree animal neglect. Robert Erickson, 64, was to be arraigned Tuesday.
Norris estimated Malheur County's share of the cost for the rescued dogs will exceed $10,000.
The Second Chance Animal Shelter in Idaho is caring for the dogs.
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