Montana: Muriel Everly, 70, facing animal cruelty charges. More of the surrendered dogs are coming up for adoption

MONTANA -- Officials with the Flathead County Animal Shelter say more of the dogs surrendered in a recent animal cruelty case in Creston will be available for adoption this week.

Forty animals - 36 dogs and four mini horses - were found at living in filthy conditions last month.

The owner, 70-year-old Muriel Everly, voluntarily surrendered all of the animals to the shelter.

Shelter Director Cliff Bennett, says seven dogs have been placed in homes but the remaining 25 are in the process of being spayed and neutered. He says three will be ready to go Tuesday, and four more on Thursday.

Bennett says one dog is in critical condition, another is being closely guarded and two have been euthanized.

 

Everly's first court appearance on animal cruelty charges is set for March 16.

ORIGINAL STORY
A 70-year-old Creston woman remains under investigation for animal cruelty charges after authorities found 37 dogs in poor condition. Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry says that on Feb. 14 an animal cruelty investigation was initiated in the Creston area.

Based on information obtained from the Kalispell Police Department and Kalispell Animal Control a search warrant was obtained by deputies for residence reported to have a large number of poorly cared dogs.

When authorities arrived at the Creston residence, they found 21 dogs that appeared not to have been cared for. Deputies say the conditions in the home were among the worst they have ever seen, with many of the animals in poor health. 

An additional 16 dogs were found crammed inside the suspect's vehicle.

One of the dogs was euthanized due its severe condition. The remaining 36 animals are now being cared for at the Flathead County Animal Shelter. In addition, four miniature horses were also found in poor health. They are currently receiving veterinary treatment.

The woman, who is not being named at this time, remains under investigation for potential Felony and Misdemeanor Cruelty to Animal charges, according to Curry. All of the animals are being held and are receiving veterinary treatment.

The case remains under investigation pending the filing of charges by the Flathead County Attorney's office. While the case is being investigated the dogs will not be available for adoption.

Caring for the animals will cost the Flathead County Animal Shelter around $1,000 a day -- or $25 per dog. The shelter is accepting donations to help care for the animals.

(KPAX - March 6, 2017)