117 Dogs Found in Mass Graves as California Law Seeks Accountability for Pet Facilities

Investigators in Northern California recovered the intact remains of 117 dogs from mass burial sites at an animal rescue facility in June. The discovery, which included skeletal remains and evidence of gunshot wounds, has joined another recent case to prompt state action on pet care standards. Rep. James Gallagher introduced a bill Tuesday to address these gaps in oversight.

The legislation, called Dunkin’s Law, would expand the state’s Animal Welfare Act to protect companion animals held at boarding and similar facilities. It classifies pets as sentient beings and allows owners to sue for damages if their animals are harmed or killed while in care. The bill is named after Dunkin, a Bernese mountain dog that died at a Los Angeles board-and-train facility in August.

Gallagher, a Republican, stated that the law provides owners with a path to seek justice when animals suffer harm or neglect. He said the measure also aims to ensure that no-kill shelters do not euthanize dogs and cats in ways that contradict their public promises. The goal is to create strong disincentives against mistreatment and neglect.

The bill responds to two specific events. In June, Humboldt County sheriff’s investigators found the 117 dogs buried on the property of a rescue. In August, DJ Andrew Fedyk and his wife, Madeleine White Fedyk, reported that Dunkin died at Smart Dogs Training in Los Angeles. Fedyk said trainer Jeff Todd told him the dog died of heat exhaustion after playing outside during a heat wave. Todd did not take the dog to a veterinarian.

Fedyk and his wife shared the story with their combined 2.5 million social media followers. The post prompted many people to reach out with similar accounts of their own experiences. Fedyk noted that the couple had chosen the facility based on positive online reviews and basic training needs. Poutine, the couple’s other dog, was returned safely.

Los Angeles Animal Services confirmed it was investigating the incident in August. Los Angeles police cited an open investigation when they declined to provide recent records for 911 calls related to Todd’s address. Neither Todd nor Fedyk responded to requests for comment on Tuesday. Gallagher said Dunkin’s case spurred the legislation, particularly after speaking with the Fedyks about their lack of legal recourse.

The bill text indicates it would apply to facilities that hold or care for companion animals. Gallagher described the discovery in Humboldt County as sickening, noting that owners trusted the animals to the rescue for protection. He said Dunkin represents all dogs in similar situations and that the law aims to ensure such events do not happen again.