Coram woman charged with felony charge after 27 dogs seized from property

Candy Evans, a 55-year-old resident of Coram, has been charged with Felony Aggravated Animal Cruelty after authorities discovered 27 dogs in deplorable conditions on her property. The situation escalated after multiple dog-related incidents were reported to officers visiting Evans's Bear Street residence since August 2024.

Upon inspection, officers noted that the dogs appeared malnourished and lethargic, living in an area contaminated with feces, urine, and trash, and lacking a clean water source. A veterinarian, who assessed the dogs on March 13, determined that none had been vaccinated for rabies or licensed in Flathead County, and severe neglect was evident, with one puppy's death linked to inadequate care.

The Flathead County Animal Shelter stepped in to manage the seizure of the dogs, successfully transferring 16 adoptable animals to other shelters across the state to accommodate the seized dogs. Currently, the shelter is responsible for the care of all 27 dogs, which are not available for adoption while legal proceedings are ongoing.

Community members interested in supporting these animals can donate to Flathead Shelter Friends, a local non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for shelter animals. All contributions will directly support the care of the seized dogs as they remain in the shelter.

For those wishing to help, Flathead Shelter Friends can be contacted at 406-890-0459 or via email at flatheadshelterfriends501c@gmail.com.