On Tuesday, Dec 15, 2009 at approximately 1:45 pm, Sergeant Bobbi Priestly of Park County Animal Control received a call from the United States Humane Society, according to a press release from the Park County Sheriff's Office. Sgt. Priestly was informed by the United States Humane Society that they had received an anonymous tip that a sled dog facility located near Hartsel, CO, had dogs that were dead and dying from apparent neglect and starvation.

Park County Sheriff's Office Animal Control responded to 6000 Forest Service Road 108 where they discovered approximately 100 dogs in severely neglected and starving conditions, the news release said.

According to PCSO, Animal Control Officers executed search warrants at the sled dog facility during the early morning hours on Wednesday, December 16, 2009. Eight dogs were found dead and over 100 animals were found in extremely poor physical condition.

Dr. Kate Anderson with the Colorado Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Animal Protection scored the animals on the Hennekee Body Score System and determined several of the animals scored 1 or less on a scale of 1 to 9. Animal Control Officers and volunteers removed 30 dogs that were rated in the poorest condition and transported the animals to facilities in Colorado Springs, Buena Vista, Salida and Park County.

On December 17th, 2009 Park County Sheriff's Office Animal Control Officers removed the remaining 70 animals and will be placing them in approved facilities throughout the state. Rescue operations are ongoing at this time, according to the news release.

Sam and Diane Walker who reside in Florissant, CO, and who operated the sled dog facility, could be facing multiple counts of animal cruelty and neglect.

According to state officials, people who want to contribute can send donations to Colorado Department of Agriculture Animal Protection Fund. The checks should be made out "Colorado Department of Agriculture". On the check there should be a note reading, "Animal Protection Fund - Park County" in the memo. Mail donations to Department of Agriculture at 700 Kipling Street, Ste 4000, Lakewood, CO 80215. They will direct the donations to those caring for the dogs.

Shelters will need time to rehabilitate and evaluate the dogs. The public is asked not to call the shelters until they have a chance to get caught up with the extra demands of care for these animals.