Another Puppy Mill

A Stevens County Sheriff Press Release stated that on September 11th, “members of the Stevens County Sheriff’s Office served two search warrants simultaneously in Southern Stevens County as part of an investigation into illegal dog breeding operations. One operation was located in the Ford area and the other in the Suncrest area of Nine Mile Falls.

During the service of the warrants, members of SCRAPS (Spokane County Regional Animal Protection Service) and local veterinarians were on scene to help contain, catalog, and examine the animals.”

In September’s paper, we wrote about the Hostetlers and their 41 dogs. In these two puppy mills, there is a combined total of at least 255 dogs, including moms with pups and possibly pregnant dogs. Stevens County Sheriff is working together with several rescue organizations to make sure the animals are safe and receive needed care. These dogs have not officially been relinquished from their owners, and investigations are still underway so details have been scarce.

On September 21st the Stevens County Sheriff Facebook page sent out an update stating that they had determined that none of the seized dogs matched dogs reported missing or stolen.

Fostering Dogs

If these dogs are surrendered, they will need foster as well as adoptive homes. Finding shelter for over 250 dogs is no small task, even with several organizations involved. If you feel compelled, contact one of the various rescues involved to sign up as a foster home. Most of the dogs taken in are of the smaller variety, and there are many different ages and stages. However, most of the rescues helping this effort already have dogs that need fostering or adoption, so taking on one of those dogs would help free up space.

In order to foster a dog, you must have a safe home for any age dog, availability of time and transportation to take the dog to the vet as needed.

Other Ways to Help

The needs of these dogs and the steps toward resolving their situation are constantly changing. At this time, monetary donations are greatly appreciated. Follow the Stevens County Sheriff, and HEART (Humane Evacuation Animal Rescue Team) Of Spokane, as well as the other rescues involved to stay informed.

Any monies donated to HEART at this time will go directly to the Stevens County puppy mill dogs. Donate online here: https://www.heartofspokane.org/donate

Donations can also be mailed to:
HEART
P.O. Box 14205
Spokane Valley, Wa. 99214

American Humane is also putting in a lot of effort for these dogs right now. If you would like to donate to them, use this web address:
DPGazette.com/americanhumane

Some of the rescue organizations involved, or that have information regarding donations and animal fostering are:

  • HEART (Humane Evacuation Animal Rescue Team) Of Spokane
  • SCRAPS
  • Spokane Humane Society
  • American Humane
  • Pasado’s Safe Haven
  • The Furry Farm Rescue
  • North Eastern Washington Humane Society
  • Higher Ground Animal Sanctuary
  • Murci’s Mission
  • Path of Hope
  • Becky’s Best Buddies

In The Future

Puppy mills and animal hoarding situations continue to be a problem, not just in Stevens county. The rescue team at these latest puppy mills were subjected to sights and smells that are graphic and unpleasant. While processing the scene, investigators had to wear hazmat (hazardous materials) gear to protect themselves.  

Many decisions must be made about what can be done and how to make these changes. Momentum is building to change the laws that currently allow 50 intact dogs over 6 months to be kept by a single owner. A dedicated animal control has also become necessary for Stevens county.

In the meantime, we are incredibly grateful to all the rescue groups involved, as well as Stevens County Sheriff for taking action.

Featured Sponsor
Thank You For Your Support!

Related Articles

WA Saves Could Cost Business Owners

Most Washington businesses without an employer-sponsored retirement plan must register for WA Saves, starting July 1, 2027, the state’s new retirement savings program. WA Saves aims to help employees build financial security by requiring businesses to offer payroll-deducted Roth IRAs managed through the state. While beneficial for workers, the program raises concerns for employers, particularly small businesses.

Read More »

Celebrate Your Community At The Annual Art Show

The SCLD Community Art Show is back, inviting artists of all ages to showcase their creativity and love for their community. Free miniature canvases will be available at Spokane County Libraries throughout February. This year’s theme, Celebrate Your Community, encourages participants to highlight what makes their hometown special.

Read More »

GreenHouse Food & Clothing Bank Change Of Hours

The GreenHouse Food and Clothing is once again adjusting its hours, this time reducing service availability and shifting to an earlier schedule. However, food bank representatives encourage those with scheduling conflicts to reach out for potential accommodations.

Read More »

Slideshow: WinterFest 2025

Deer Park’s WinterFest 2025 brought the community together with fun traditions like outhouse races, a bustling craft fair, and live music. Check out our online gallery.

Read More »

Deadline Nears For Deer Park Post Office Relocation Input

After over half a century at its current location, the United States Postal Service is proposing two potential options for the Deer Park Post Office to address the growing community’s needs. In accordance with federal law, the Postal Service is inviting public input on the proposal before finalizing its decision. However, the opportunity for citizens to share their feedback is quickly coming to an end.

Read More »

Miss Deer Park 2025: Scholarships & Opportunities Await

Sophomore and junior high school girls are invited to join the 2025 Miss Deer Park Scholarship Program. This annual event, which has awarded over $48,000 in scholarships over the past three years, offers opportunities to represent the community, build confidence, and help fund college.

Read More »

Share this!

Featured Sponsor
Thank You For Your Support!

Share this!

Featured Sponsor
Thank You For Your Support!

Read more news.

Stevens County: Residents Advised to Shelter in Place

The Stevens County Sheriff’s Office has issued an urgent message to residents in the vicinity of the 7600 block of Highway 291, advising them to shelter in place and lock their doors due to an ongoing police action. The situation has led to heavy police activity in the area, and residents are urged to avoid the area until further notice.

Read More »

Subscribe to our emails

Use the form below to sign up to receive news via email at no cost to you.

Read & Support The

Local news to keep you informed and entertained. The Deer Park Gazette is locally owned and operated. When you support the Deer Park Gazette, you support local writers and photographers.