25 dead dogs found in Mat-Su residence, triggering animal cruelty probe

Authorities investigate grisly discovery of deceased canines at Matanuska-Susitna property

Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:50pm

An extreme close-up photograph of a worn, tarnished dog collar against a stark black background, conceptually representing the tragic fate of the deceased canines found at the property.The shocking discovery of 25 dead dogs at a single residence has sparked a criminal investigation into potential animal cruelty in Alaska's Matanuska-Susitna region.Anchorage Today

An animal cruelty investigation has been launched after authorities discovered 25 dead dogs at a residence in Alaska's Matanuska-Susitna Borough. Alaska State Troopers and Mat-Su Borough Animal Control responded to the property in the Caswell Lakes area, roughly midway between Talkeetna and Willow, on a request to check out the location, where they found the deceased canines. No charges have been filed yet, but the criminal probe is ongoing.

Why it matters

The discovery of dozens of dead dogs at a single residence raises serious concerns about potential animal abuse and neglect in the Mat-Su region, which has seen a rise in pet ownership and abandonment issues in recent years as the area's population has grown. Animal welfare is an important community issue, and this investigation could shed light on the need for better oversight and resources to protect vulnerable pets.

The details

According to authorities, Alaska State Troopers and Mat-Su Borough Animal Control responded to the property in the Caswell Lakes area after receiving a request to check out the location. Upon arrival, investigators found 25 deceased dogs at the residence. No charges have been filed yet, but the criminal investigation into potential animal cruelty is ongoing.

  • On Wednesday, authorities discovered the 25 dead dogs at the Matanuska-Susitna property.

The players

Alaska State Troopers

The state law enforcement agency that responded to the property and is leading the criminal investigation.

Mat-Su Borough Animal Control

The local animal welfare agency that assisted state troopers in responding to the property and discovering the deceased dogs.

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What’s next

Authorities have not yet announced any potential charges related to the discovery of the 25 dead dogs, but the criminal investigation is ongoing. The findings could prompt new efforts to address animal welfare issues in the Matanuska-Susitna region.

The takeaway

This grisly discovery of two dozen deceased dogs at a single residence highlights the need for greater oversight and resources to protect animal welfare in Alaska's fast-growing Mat-Su region, where pet ownership and abandonment issues have become an increasing concern for local communities.