11 Dogs Found Dead, Many More Emaciated; Suspected Unlicensed Breeder Under Investigation

RIVERSIDE (CBSLA.com) — A suspected unlicensed Riverside County dog breeder was under investigation Wednesday after at least 11 dogs were found dead and several others in emaciated condition, authorities said.

The nearly 40 canines were abandoned at the residence located on La Sierra Avenue, just south of the Riverside (91) Freeway, according to Riverside County Animal Services spokesman John Welsh.

The dogs' owner was not immediately located on the property.

Authorities say the actual number of deceased dogs may be higher because several were decomposed.

KCAL9's Serene Branson reported the propery owner was still at large.

Officials told her the canine death toll reached 11. Twenty-seven dogs were found alive and impounded.

She said several of the dogs were so badly malnourished they couldn't walk.

None of the dogs are available for adoption.