22 Dogs Removed From Home in Animal Neglect Case

Noted health problems included worms, malnourishment, lack of medical care and mange.

Photos of dog neglect case courtesy: Linn County Sheriff

(LEBANON, Ore.) - 22 mixed breed dogs ranging from several weeks to several years old were removed from a residence in Linn County today.

Sheriff Tim Mueller says his deputies served a search warrant this morning over a complaint of animal neglect at a residence located at 34336 East Lacomb Road, approximately 10 northeast of Lebanon.

Mueller says the dogs' owners, 60-year old Jerry Goowdin and 60-year old Linda Goodwin, voluntarily relinquished ownership of the dogs to the Oregon Humane Society and the 22 mixed breed dogs were taken to Portland.

A veterinarian assisted the Sheriff's Office in this case and the condition of the dogs was considered as poor to fair.

Noted problems included worms, malnourishment, lack of medical care and mange.

Investigators who responded to the residence reported that some of the dogs were living outside in standing water with inadequate or no shelter. Others were chained to trees and other objects. Mueller says the dogs were clearly endangered.

"Others were living inside the residence in conditions that would be considered deplorable," he stated.

No charges have been filed at this time but this is a criminal investigation that is continuing.