10/07/2026
WHATCOM COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE INVESTIGATES ANIMAL CRUELTY CASE
CRIMINAL CHARGES PENDING; 30 DOGS RESCUED
WHATCOM COUNTY, WA - On Monday, detectives with the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office (WCSO) were alerted to a potential animal cruelty situation involving approximately 30 dogs. The dogs were being housed by Pittie Project PNW at a property in the 200 block of Russet Avenue, unincorporated Whatcom County. Pittie Project PNW was founded and is led by 38-year-old Ashley Georgia of Bellingham. Photographs provided to investigators showed multiple dogs appearing injured and in poor health.
Detectives responded to the property to assess the animals' welfare. The property owner cooperated fully and granted investigators access to the premises. Upon arrival, detectives observed numerous dogs in what seemed to be extremely poor condition, living in unsanitary environments, with no apparent access to adequate food or water.
Injuries and conditions visually observed by investigators included, but were not limited to:
• Open wounds on dogs' bodies, legs, and tails
• Evidence of worms in f***s
• Matted and discolored fur consistent with prolonged exposure to f***s and urine
• Significantly underweight, with ribs, hips, and leg bones visible
• Strong foul odors throughout the living areas where the dogs were housed.
Based on these observations, investigators obtained a search warrant to seize the animals so they could receive immediate medical care and treatment. During the investigation, the property owner informed investigators that Ashley Georgia (38 years old, Bellingham) was solely responsible for the care and welfare of the dogs housed at the location.
Investigators also learned that various volunteers had previously removed 13 additional dogs from the property after discovering the animals' condition. Information gathered during the investigation indicated that Ashley Georgia had received donated dog food and thousands of dollars in financial contributions intended to support the animals' care.
All animals located on the property were safely removed and are currently receiving medical evaluation and treatment with the assistance of the Whatcom Humane Society.
This investigation is ongoing. Criminal charges are pending.
