The Humboldt County Planning and Building Department has reinstated the conditional use permit for Miranda’s Rescue in Fortuna, enabling the facility to restart animal intakes and adoptions. This decision follows a suspension imposed in early August over several violations, including unauthorized expansion of operations and issues related to an unpermitted modular trailer and the legality of onsite euthanasia and burial of animals.
Read More
Planning and Building Director John Ford confirmed via email that owner Shannon Miranda addressed the issues that led to the suspension. During a recent tour, Miranda stated he has ceased using the northern parcel for rescue activities, which had been under scrutiny. This area includes barns previously identified by the Sheriff's Office in connection with alleged animal killings.
Miranda indicated that he has resumed operations but at a reduced capacity due to past challenges with adopting out animals. He noted that while many animals have found homes, he is cautious about the volume of intakes. The resolution concerning the euthanasia and burial practices remains unclear. Miranda’s attorney, Allison Jackson, previously challenged assertions that euthanasia and burial are prohibited under the permit, claiming that animal burial is permissible on private property under certain conditions.
Further complicating the situation, Miranda's facility is situated within FEMA’s 100-year flood zone near the Eel River, where local regulations restrict animal burial in proximity to water sources. In a response to inquiries about permit violations, Ford clarified that while the operations plan for the facility bans the establishment of a veterinary or euthanasia facility, it does not explicitly prohibit euthanasia altogether.
Despite the permit’s reinstatement, Miranda is under investigation by multiple agencies, including local law enforcement and federal authorities, due to allegations of animal abuse, fraud, and theft. Investigators recently uncovered the remains of over 120 dogs on the property, with evidence suggesting they were buried on site between January and April. Allegations suggest Miranda profited from surrendering animals, charging significant fees, while he denies claims of widespread euthanasia outside of necessary circumstances.
A civil suit has been filed against Miranda by Rocket Dog Rescue, accusing him of animal cruelty and fraud. Local activist Jennifer Raymond has also contacted the Attorney General’s Office seeking to have the nonprofit dissolved due to the circumstances surrounding the animals in Miranda’s care. As of now, no criminal charges have been brought against Miranda, but the Sheriff has urged the public for patience as the investigation continues.