Dozens of dogs rescued by police from sweltering removal truck

16 Jun 2026 • 11:54 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Dozens of dogs rescued by police from sweltering removal truck

  • Police in Murrieta, California, rescued 33 dogs found locked inside a sweltering U-Haul van and an SUV.
  • Initially, 21 Cavalier King Charles spaniels were discovered in the U-Haul, appearing neglected with matted fur and limited access to food and water.
  • During the investigation, the suspect returned to the scene in a separate SUV carrying an additional 12 dogs.
  • All 33 dogs were subsequently taken by officials to Animal Friends of the Valleys in Lake Elsinore for veterinary care.
  • The owner was arrested at the scene and has been charged with 21 felony counts of animal cruelty.

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