22 Dogs Rescued Following Fire In Unincorporated RivCo

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — Nearly two dozen small-breed dogs rescued last week during a fire near Woodcrest were being transferred to a Studio City-based rescue that agreed to take over their care and help them find new homes.

The 22 Pomeranians, Shih Tzus and terrier mixes were discovered Friday in kennels at a property in the 16000 block of Gamble Avenue in the unincorporated community south of Riverside. Riverside County Department of Animal Services was called to the location by firefighters battling a small fire near the property, the agency said.

Once on scene, animal services officers determined the dogs were not properly care for — many of them severely matted. A senior couple lives at the property. The husband said his wife used to operate a legitimate kennel, but she has suffered serious health issues during the past year, has become bedridden, and is unable to care for the dogs. He agreed to relinquish ownership of the 22 canines, according to RCDAS.

Although the dogs' owners could have faced animal cruelty charges, cooperation for the sake of the animals was reached, the agency explained.

The pooches were transported to the Western Riverside County/City Animal Shelter in Jurupa Valley where they were examined and treated by veterinary services team members.

Officials also reached out to Studio City-based WagmorPets, which has assisted the county with previous multi-dog rescues.

“We never like to see dogs in these neglected conditions,” Animal Services Director Julie Bank said. “Getting them out and helped fast is the goal and we thank our partner WagmorPets for stepping up for these poor dogs and get them on a path of recovery — and into loving homes.”