117 dead dogs found at 'no-kill' animal rescue - many with gunshot wounds - BBC News

Hundreds more animals are still missing from the California facility as investigators continue excavating the grounds.

Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Investigators search for animal remains as part of an active investigation into alleged animal cruelty, fraud and theft in Fortuna, California.

Investigators have found the remains of 117 dogs in various states of decomposition - many of which were found with gunshot wounds - on the grounds of a purported "no-kill" animal shelter in northern California.

Authorities excavated open fields at Miranda's Rescue Animal Sanctuary for evidence of animals believed to be buried in mass graves, the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office said. About 600 dog collars were also located.

Officials had been investigating potential fraud or animal cruelty after hundreds of animals were discovered missing from the facility.

The sanctuary owner has asked the public to "consider all the facts before reaching conclusions".