Dogs found in Turpin home need forever home

Photo: City of Perris 

Two dogs were found in the Southern California home where a couple allegedly held their 13 children in captivity, torturing and neglecting them for years. The City of Perris is now trying to find a new home for the pets. 

David Allen Turpin, 57, and Louise Anna Turpin, 49 appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to all charges Thursday. 

The Turpins were charged Thursday with committing years of torture and abuse that left their children malnourished, undersized and with cognitive impairments. The Turpins are accused of chaining their children to beds at times. 

According to the city, Louise Turpin voluntarily surrendered the dogs to the city. The city wants the dogs, both female Maltese-mixes, to be adopted together. They are both about a year old. 

Senior Animal Control Officer Christina Avila says the dogs appear to be healthy and friendly and are leash trained. 

A raffle to adopt the dogs began Jan. 19 but only Perris residents are allowed to apply. "Interested residents should contact the City of Perris between Jan. 19-26, with their name, address, contact number and email. They may submit information to cavila@cityofperris.org," according to the city's website.  

The city is only allowing Perris residents to apply so Animal Control Services officers can inspect the homes to make sure they are a good fit for the dogs. 

The homes Animal Control Services approves will be placed in a raffle. The applicant - drawn at random - will get the dogs.