The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday that they arrested the founder of the Whatcom County-based nonprofit Pittie Project PNW who was recently charged with 30 counts of animal cruelty.
WCSO seized about 30 dogs in “extremely poor condition” without apparent access to adequate food or water from a property in unincorporated Whatcom County on Oct. 5. Ashley Nichole Georgia, 38, of Lynden was the dogs’ sole caretaker. She had received donated dog food and thousands of dollars in donations intended to support the animals’ care.
WCSO spokesperson Deb Slater said investigators noted open wounds on the dogs’ bodies, legs and tails; evidence of worms in feces; matted and discolored fur consistent with prolonged exposure to feces and urine; and strong foul odors throughout the living areas.
The dogs were also significantly underweight, with visible ribs, hips and leg bones.
A warrant was issued for Georgia’s arrest Oct. 7, and she was taken into custody 16 days later. Slater said she could not comment on the delay between the warrant and Georgia’s arrest.
The rescued dogs were transported to the Whatcom Humane Society for medical care, and the humane society is in the process of transferring care to rescue partners who will place the dogs in foster homes. All the dogs are expected to fully recover.
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