At least 117 dead dogs found in 'no kill' animal shelter in California

Warning: This article includes mention of animal abuse.

Authorities in California have unearthed the remains of more than a hundred dogs from a "no-kill" animal shelter.

As reported by NBC News, the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office said on June 26 that investigators found at least 117 dead dogs, along with 21 canine skulls and hundreds of bones, during searches at the 200,000-square-meter Miranda's Rescue Animal Sanctuary in Fortuna.

The office said investigators recovered 600 dog collars in a barn on the property, which they suspected was a killing site.

Sheriff William Honsal described the discovery as "horrific," though officials have yet to announce any criminal charges, particularly to the shelter's founder, Shannon Miranda. 

Miranda has not yet commented following the developments.

According to the sheriff's office, their investigation into Miranda's Rescue began in April after receiving "credible reports" accusing the shelter of felony animal abuse, cruelty, fraud, and conspiracy.

In a June 18 statement on the shelter's website, Miranda said media coverage and public commentary on the case “presented an incomplete and, in some cases, inaccurate picture of our work.”

“At Miranda’s Rescue, our mission is to save as many animals as we safely can—always balancing compassion for animals with our responsibility to protect families, children, other pets, and the public," the statement read. 

According to the Animal Humane Society, the no-kill campaign is a movement since the 80's asking for "a commitment from communities to take proper measures to save all healthy and treatable pets from unnecessary euthanasia."

Miranda has said that his organization is a no-kill rescue. "We do not euthanize animals simply to make space."

However, Miranda noted that there are "rare" circumstances wherein euthanasia is necessary, like if an animal is suffering a terminal condition or poses a serious danger to people or other animals.

"In those situations, we make the most humane and responsible decision we can, always with public safety and animal welfare in mind."