Rocket Dog Rescue has filed a civil complaint against Shannon Miranda, Founder of Miranda’s Rescue.
We did not make this decision lightly and we are moving forward because this is about accountability.
Rocket Dog transferred four dogs, Paulie, Paddington, Scooby, and Rover, to Miranda’s Rescue on March 1. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office later informed us that microchips associated with Paulie, Paddington, and Scooby were recovered during its investigation of canine remains found on the property. We have since communicated with Rover’s adopter and independently confirmed his adoption.
At the time of the transfer, Rocket Dog was not aware of the investigation or allegations involving Miranda’s Rescue. We believed all four dogs would be safe in an environment represented as better suited to their needs. We were later told that Paulie, Paddington, and Scooby had also been adopted, and nothing in our direct interactions or the updates we received led us to question that information or believe any of the dogs were in danger. The civil complaint alleges that those representations concerning Paulie, Paddington, and Scooby were false.
Our civil complaint is separate from the ongoing multi-agency law enforcement investigation into possible animal cruelty and fraud. It alleges that Shannon Miranda made false representations about the dogs’ adoption and welfare and failed in his responsibility to protect them while they were in his care. The complaint includes claims for negligence involving animal cruelty and intentional misrepresentation and the matter will now proceed through the civil legal process.
Rocket Dog’s last transfer to Miranda’s Rescue occurred on March 1. We made no further transfers after that date and will not transfer animals to Miranda’s Rescue in the future. No legal action can bring Paulie, Paddington, or Scooby back; they were part of Rocket Dog, and they deserved so much better.
Because the investigation and civil case remain active, this statement reflects what we can responsibly share at this time. We will continue pursuing answers wherever answers can still be found, cooperating fully with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, and seeking accountability through the appropriate legal process.
This is about standing up for Paulie, Paddington, and Scooby, as well as any other dogs that have been impacted by these events. It is about seeking the truth and holding those responsible accountable, and we will not stop fighting.
Media Inquiries can be sent to: press@rocketdogrescue.org
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