Desert Hot Springs Suspends Partnership With Dog Rescue Suspected Of Abuse

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, CA — Desert Hot Springs has suspended its partnership Thursday with Pittie Project PNW, a nonprofit dog rescue and rehabilitation in Bellingham, Washington, following an animal cruelty investigation involving roughly 30 dogs.

"The city of Desert Hot Springs has been informed of serious allegations of animal abuse and neglect at Pittie Project PNW, one of its partner rescue organizations located in Washington state," city officials said.

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It was not immediately known how long the city has partnered with the rescue organization or the amount of dogs that were sent to the organization.

According to the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office, detectives were alerted Monday to a potential animal cruelty situation of nearly 30 dogs housed in the 200 block of Russet Avenue. Arriving detectives allegedly found numerous dogs in "extremely poor condition, living in unsanitary environments, with no apparent access to adequate food or water," authorities said in a social media post.

Additionally, the dogs were apparently found with injuries and underweight.

Investigators discovered that the property's owner Ashley Georgia, 38, was solely responsible for their care and welfare.

All of the canines were safely removed and received medical treatment, authorities said. The investigation was ongoing.

City officials said they are fully cooperating with law enforcement and committed to review and strengthen its rescue partnership protocols.

"Animals entrusted to our care are part of our Desert Hot Springs family. Their safety and well-being are priorities for us, and our dedication to their welfare continues after placement with a rescue partner," city officials said.