Today’s update provides a brief status on the Borough’s independent investigation regarding its enforcement actions and clarifies the number of dogs associated with the kennel license in the Caswell Lakes case. The investigation into the Borough’s enforcement actions began this week and is expected to continue over the coming month.
Initial reports stated that 25 dogs were deceased. This update clarifies that the confirmed number is 23. The kennel license issued in January 2025 listed 28 dogs. Of those, two live dogs are currently in Borough custody, it has been reported that two dogs passed away well before this incident, and one dog is reported to have previously run away from the kennel.
Woody, one of the dogs in Borough custody, is expected to transfer to a rescue partner within the next week and Birdie, the other dog, is expected to be moved to foster.
An independent external investigator from the Mat-Su has been named and will begin his investigation next week. Richard Payne, a founding member of Denali Law Group, has practiced law for more than 20 years and brings broad experience as a prosecutor, public defender, and municipal attorney. Borough Manager Mike Brown believes Payne is a good fit and that his experience will provide the depth needed to navigate this difficult case.
A second living dog associated with Caswell Kennel was removed from a home in Talkeetna and turned over this afternoon to Mat-Su Borough Animal Care. “Birdie” is being evaluated and will receive medical care deemed necessary by a licensed veterinarian.
More updates will follow as additional information becomes available.
During tonight’s Regular Assembly Meeting, Borough Manager Mike Brown provided an update regarding the Caswell Lakes dogs.
An arrest has been made in the case. The dog owner was apprehended by Alaska State Troopers and has been charged by the State with 26 felony counts of animal cruelty.
The Mat-Su Borough’s investigation and external independent review related to Borough enforcement actions are currently underway. There is no clear timeline at this time; however, updates will be shared with the public as information becomes available.
There is a significant amount of unofficial information circulating on social media and through local news outlets, and not all of it is factual or complete. In his closing remarks, Manager Brown addressed the public directly:
“I’m asking for your patience to allow the investigation to run its course. Our Animal Care team cares deeply about animals and works every day with compassion and dedication. Please be civil. The cruelty done to these dogs does not justify mistreating others.”
The Borough has received numerous public comments regarding the recent deaths of 25 dogs at a property in Caswell Lakes. We recognize how difficult and heartbreaking this is for our community, and we share in the concern many residents are feeling. This matter remains an active Alaska State Trooper investigation and the Borough will continue to assist in any way possible.
We also hear the community’s expectation that the Borough must do better in fulfilling its responsibility to protect animals and intervene. I agree, we must do better. We will be evaluating how to improve our responses and involvement.
The Borough began an internal investigation immediately, and will initiate an external independent review of our actions and protocols to ensure we have clear, effective systems in place to protect animals while also respecting the rights of our residents. The findings and recommendations from that review will be shared publicly when completed.
Mike Brown
Mat-Su Borough Manager
For media inquiries: Stefan Hinman/907-982-2805/This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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