61 Shelties Surrendered After House Fire Up For Adoption In Jurupa Valley

JURUPA VALLEY (CBSLA.com) — Dozens of Shetland Sheepdogs (Shelties) are up for adoption Monday morning following their rescue from a residential fire in Woodcrest over the weekend, officials said.

KNX 1070's Ed Mertz reports the investigation of the Riverside County house fire that left three people and 61 dogs homeless.

According to the Riverside County Fire Department, the fire broke out just after 3 p.m. on Saturday, in the 16400 block of Pick Place, showing smoke from the attic.

No injuries were reported, however, the American Red Cross was requested to assist three adults who were displaced by the fire and Animal Control to care for the dogs that were surrendered by their owner, officials said.

"The woman has surrendered all the dogs to us," said John C. Welsh, Riverside County Animal Services spokesman.  "She has relinquished ownership of the dogs."

According to Welsh, all of the dogs were examined by veterinary service members and seem to be in excellent health.

"Some of the Shelties need grooming, some are a bit shy and a little fearful," Welsh said.  "An experienced dog owner would be best for the shy fearful ones."

Shelter officials are asking would-be-adopters to inquire about the Shelties in person as interested callers have been blocking their phone center, preventing assistance for other emergency calls.

The Shelties are located at the Western Riverside County/City Animal Shelter at 6851 Van Buren Boulevard.