Nearly 30 Animals Rescued from Suspected Neglect in Lake County, Oregon

Christmas Valley, Ore. – A collaborative effort between the Oregon Humane Society (OHS) and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office resulted in the rescue of 28 animals from a property in Christmas Valley earlier this week. The animals were reportedly living in unsanitary conditions and lacking access to basic necessities.

Details of the Rescue

On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, a team comprised of five Oregon Humane staff members and deputies from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at a property in Christmas Valley. The team rescued 17 dogs, four cats, five birds and two gerbils as reported by KATU. Several deceased animals were also discovered at the location.

The dogs and cats were transported to the OHS campus in Portland, while the birds and gerbils were taken to the Humane Society of North Lake County. The rescued animals are not currently available for adoption, with updates to be posted on the Oregon Humane website.

Second Rescue in Recent Months

This incident marks the second time in less than two months that the OHS has assisted the Lake County Sheriff’s Office in a case of suspected animal neglect. KPTV reports that last month, 23 animals were rescued from another Christmas Valley property.

Official Statements

Sheriff Daniel Tague of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for the assistance provided by the Oregon Humane Society and a veterinarian from La Pine. “Their collaboration was critical in ensuring these animals were safely removed and received the care they needed,” Tague stated.

Chris Allori, Chief of Oregon Humane Law Enforcement, highlighted the importance of partnerships with other law enforcement agencies. “Our partnerships with other law enforcement agencies are critical to helping animals who may be suffering from abuse or neglect. Many agencies around the state do not have the resources to help large groups of animals, making Oregon Humane a critical resource,” Allori said. OHS Law Enforcement assisted other agencies more than 150 times in 2025 and investigated nearly 800 cases.

Ongoing Investigation

The investigation into the animal neglect case is ongoing. Authorities have not released further details regarding potential charges or the circumstances leading to the animals’ condition. OregonLive reports that three deceased puppies were recovered and transferred to Oregon Humane’s Animal Crimes Forensic Center for forensic necropsy.