04/18/2026
Willow Dog Mushers Association (WDMA) is shocked and appalled to learn of the situation in Caswell involving 25 dogs that were found deceased after attempts from neighbors to get Mat-Su Animal Control to act failed. Some of the founding goals of WDMA are to promote responsible dog care and husbandry, and to address issues of interest to current and future dog mushers, including government regulations.
While the facts involved in the case are being investigated, we wanted to share information for those who wish to contact the entities involved. WDMA will be sending a statement as well, asking for a thorough investigation into the chain of events as well as all involved individuals. This includes the Animal Control personnel who seemingly mismanaged the situation. We will also be requesting that the appropriate charges be filed as soon as possible.
• Mat-Su Animal Control Enforcement: 907-761-7501
• Mat-Su Animal Care & Regulation Director, Vanessa Forbes: 907-761-7505
• Mat-Su Borough Mayor, Edna DeVries: 907-861-8682
• Mat-Su Borough Manager, Mike Brown: 907-861-8689
If you are in a situation where you are having difficulty caring for your animals, please know that there are resources out there that can assist you! Please reach out for help before it becomes another tragic story.
Animal Foster or Placement
• August Fund: [email protected]
• Alaska Animal Rescue Friends: 907-727-6728
• Alaska Dog and Puppy Resue: 907-745-7030
Assistance with Outdoor Living Situations for Dogs
• Straw for Dogs: 907-310-7294
Pet Food Pantries
Mat Su Valley
• Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue : 907-745-7030
• Alaskan Animal Advocates: 907-315-5050
• Mat Su Animal Shelter: Kibble for Kritters program 907-746-5500
• Willow Community Food Pantry: stocks pet food as able 907-495-8292
• MATSU Food Bank/Wasilla Food Pantry: stocks pet food as able 907-357-3769
Anchorage
• Alaska SPCA: 907-562-1092
• Friends of Pets: 907-562-2535
Assistance with Veterinary Medical Bills
• The Roscoe Fund: 907-865-6999
• Alaska Cat and Dog Rescue: 907-745-7030
Spay and Neuter Assistance
• Alaska Cat and Dog Rescue: 907-745-7030
• Alaska SPCA: 907-562-2999
• Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue: ** TEXT ONLY 907-350-7251
