Crime & Safety

Dead Puppies Found Buried Behind Watsonville Kmart

Officers determined the mother rejected the babies, the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter said.

WATSONVILLE, CA — Puppies were found dead and buried in the dirt behind the Kmart in Watsonville, according to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter.

All but one puppy from the litter died due to infection and lack of maternal care after the mother rejected her puppies, the shelter said. Officials said it was not the owner's fault. KION reported the owner lived in a nearby van.

The surviving puppy is being fostered by Heading Home Animal Rescue. The puppy parents are in the shelter's custody and were scheduled to be spayed and neutered Wednesday.

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The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter reminded the public that its Planned Pethood Program can help owners prevent accidental puppy litters and offers free spay and neuter on a case-by-case basis to owners who can't afford the service.

The shelter can be reached at 831-454-7200.

Find out what's happening in Watsonvillefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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