On Tuesday, Sept. 23, at the request of Polk County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon Humane assisted with the rescue of 41 dogs who were living in unsanitary conditions and suffering from suspected neglect.
Oregon Humane deployed a team of 12 experts to the scene including a forensic veterinarian, behavior specialists, and highly-skilled animal handlers. The animals were carefully transported back to Oregon Humane Portland Campus and are currently receiving care.
Due to the heavily-wooded area where these dogs were living, we were concerned that there could be additional dogs that we were not able to locate.
On Wednesday, Oct. 8, our team received an emergency call and returned to the property to bring two additional dogs and 12 newborn puppies into our care.
The animals are not currently available for adoption. Please continue to check back here for updates on their progress and status.
How You Can Help Animals
Report Animal Cruelty
When you suspect animal cruelty, abuse, or neglect, our Humane Special Agents are here to help. If you believe you’ve witnessed a crime involving animals, submit an online report or call (503) 802-6707.
Adopt an Available Animal
Our shelters are nearing capacity—providing one animal with a home means opening a kennel to help another animal in need. Adoption fees for all animals are 50% off Friday through Sunday, Oct. 10–12.
Make a Donation
Unlike other law enforcement agencies, Oregon Humane Humane Law Enforcement is donor-funded and relies on your generosity to ensure animals are protected from abuse and neglect. A gift today will ensure our Humane Law Enforcement team can provide critical support to agencies and animals across the state. Will you please give now to help protect vulnerable animals in need?
Press Release from Polk County Sheriff’s Office
On 9/11/25, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office animal control deputy received a call regarding a stray puppy in poor health in the area of McCaleb Road, which is located just west of Monmouth, Oregon. Deputy Whiting was familiar with someone in the area that she’d had previous contacts with who owned dogs of the same breed as the puppy. She contacted the suspected owner, Ms. Jeanette Case, and during the subsequent investigation the Polk County Sheriff’s Office noted unsuitable living conditions and a lack of care standards for the animals in Ms. Case’s possession.
On 9/23/25 at approximately 8:30 AM, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and 12 members of the Oregon Humane (Oregon Humane) returned to 12900 McCaleb Rd Monmouth, OR, to conduct a large scale joint operation. In total, the team took possession of 41 large guardian mixed breed dogs that were lacking in socialization and care. Several of the dogs were borderline feral. While securing the scene, deputies located three one-day-old puppies discarded in random areas and were able to quickly get them removed from the unsafe conditions and taken from the scene for immediate care. It was later reported the puppies were doing well. Sadly, Oregon Humane staff located a fourth puppy that was deceased.
It should be noted, a search warrant was granted prior to the start of this operation, however, the owner chose to cooperate with the investigation and surrendered the animals to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
At this time, Ms. Case has been charged with Animal Neglect II. Further charges will likely be added after the case is reviewed by the District Attorney and all of the evidence, including veterinary examination records, can be collected as part of the investigation.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Oregon Humane for assisting us with this operation. This would not have been possible without their help. Oregon Humane took custody of all 41 dogs and are currently providing all medical care and evaluations for the surrendered animals. Their team of professional handlers and medical staff on scene, along with Deputy Whiting, showed great care and compassion for all of these animals.
At this time, the surrendered dogs will complete their medical evaluations and treatment prior to being temporarily placed with care providers in accordance with Oregon Humane policy. After being released by the District Attorney’s Office, the rehoming of these animals will be handled by Oregon Humane. If you would like to help with the care and medical costs of these animals, you can contact the Oregon Humane branch in Salem (503-285-7722) for instructions on how to make a contribution to their ongoing wellness journey.
