Palm Springs Animal Shelter Confirms Six Dogs Lost in Humboldt County Rescue Investigation

The Palm Springs Animal Shelter is providing more information as investigators continue looking into the deaths of more than 100 animals at a Northern California rescue facility.

The shelter confirmed six dogs connected to transfers with Miranda’s Rescue in Humboldt County were among the animals found dead at the property.

According to the Palm Springs Animal Shelter, 35 animals were transferred to the sanctuary beginning in 2024 after staff believed the dogs would be placed in safe and loving homes.

Investigators discovered the remains of 117 pets, including canine remains, skulls, and hundreds of bones, during a search of the property in late June. Authorities say evidence suggests many of the animals may have been shot.

The Palm Springs Animal Shelter has continued updating the public as more information becomes available.

In a statement posted Monday on Facebook, the shelter said, “Mabel, Creek, Fergus, Eclair were healthy, behaviorally sound dogs who we believed had every opportunity to find loving homes. In fact, Miranda’s Rescue had previously reported to us that both Mabel and Fergus had been adopted and provided updates that supported those claims.”

The shelter says it is cooperating fully with investigators as the case continues.

The Palm Springs Animal Shelter also announced it is temporarily stopping cat and kitten intake through July 27 due to an illness spreading throughout the shelter.

Staff says the pause will allow time to treat affected kittens and thoroughly clean the facility. Officials say the temporary closure is a precautionary measure designed to contain the illness and prevent further spread.