One year ago, the Mason County Sheriff’s Department was dispatched to a property in Grapeview for an animal cruelty investigation. Over 60 animals, mostly dogs, were discovered in deplorable conditions, some in need of urgent medical care. 

The Humane Society of Mason County responded immediately, working closely with law enforcement on-site and stepping in to lead the animal care and coordination effort. Recognizing the scale of the situation, HSMC quickly activated our network of trusted rescue partners, calling on several organizations we work with for support in this large case. 

Thanks to those strong partnerships and the tireless efforts of our staff, volunteers, and veterinary team, every animal rescued from the property received the care they desperately needed. 

Many have since recovered and gone on to loving homes, including Murphy who was adopted by the family of one of the deputies on this case. Here’s their story.

The afternoon of April 14th my husband put on his uniform, threw some food in a lunch box, grabbed a charged battery for his radio and walked out the door for an overtime shift like normal.

We had no idea at the time [that] this shift would end up adding a new family member to the mix.

A couple hours later I get a phone call from the same husband who the day before had told me I can’t get any more animals, explaining that there is this “small fluffy white dog” that needs a home.

Twenty-four hours later when this puppy was placed in my arms, I was horrified that I could feel even the smallest details in his bones, his teeth chattered from how relentlessly he shook and the fear in his eyes was heartbreaking. 

Each day was a little better as our sweet boy learned to trust us and began to get his strength back. We watched him learn how to run, to play, learn what a TV was and how to get on the couch. Most importantly we watched him get healthy! He slowly gained weight and started to show his personality which consists mostly of barking and digging holes, but who can blame the guy!

The number of animals in need in Mason County is significant. Last year we cared for 934 pets in our program. In the first three months of this year, we have already spayed or neutered 1,653 animals.

Please partner with us to help provide a second chance for companion animals.

Foster. Volunteer. Donate. Adopt. Share.