Six dogs in poor condition were removed from an overcrowded Bothell home Friday morning after King County Animal Care and Control (KCACC) coordinated several agencies and partner organizations to investigate a suspected case of animal hoarding, according to a King County press release.

The homeowner cooperated with Animal Care and Control, and it was not necessary to use the search warrant to gain entry to the residence. She surrendered all of the dogs to King County Animal Care and Control, which worked to foster them to animal organizations where they can receive medical care and any necessary rehabilitation. If the animals are able to be rehabilitated, they will be placed in foster homes until ready for adoption.

The home was filled with garbage, numerous boxes and animal feces. At this point, it appears all animals have been safely removed from the home, however the house has a rat infestation.

During the investigation, Animal Control Officers detected the possible odor of natural gas, and alerted the local fire department. Gas and electricity service at the home were disabled while fire officials investigated. The homeowner has made arrangements to stay at an alternate location Friday night.

A concerned neighbor first alerted King County July 31 about questionable conditions and a large number of animals at the home. Following criminal investigation procedures, Animal Control Officers began collecting evidence, interviewing witnesses and gathering a task force of government agencies to work cooperatively on the case, which deals with issues of public health, permitting and possible criminal charges. Evidence collected at the scene may lead to an animal-cruelty charge against the pet owner.

A portion of pet licensing fees in King County help to fund animal-cruelty investigations by Animal Care and Control. In the past year, animal-cruelty prosecutions have increased more than 300 percent with the addition of a dedicated Animal Control Officer working full time to gather evidence and recommend charges to prosecuting attorneys.

Residents can call King County Animal Care and Control to file complaints of suspected animal cruelty or neglect at (206-296-7387) or by downloading and submitting the online complaint form at http://www.kingcounty.gov/safety/AnimalServices/complaints.aspx. For more information on pet regulations, visit www.kingcounty.gov/pets.