SEQUIM — Clallam County Sheriff’s deputies rescued 36 neglected animals, including 32 sheep, two goats, and two chickens, from a small residential farm on Dec. 4 following reports of animal cruelty.
The investigation began on Nov. 23 after a tipster reported a dead sheep and observed others appearing malnourished. Deputies consulted Sara Penhallegon, a licensed veterinary technician and director of Center Valley Animal Rescue, who confirmed the animals were in critical need of veterinary care.
A search warrant was executed with assistance from Jefferson County Animal Control, Center Valley Animal Rescue, the Welfare for Animals Guild, and the Animal Solutions Advisory Committee. Deputies found three dead sheep in a pasture and deceased chickens in a coop. The surviving animals were transported to Center Valley Animal Rescue for treatment.
Two sheep died during or shortly after transport, but the owner later voluntarily surrendered all animals. The case remains under investigation.
Community members can help offset veterinary care costs by donating to Center Valley Animal Rescue at centervalleyanimalrescue.org.