GOLD BAR, Wash. — A local couple has until Friday to come up with the cash to take care of more than 150 dogs that have been seized from the pair.

Jason and Serenna Larsen each face six counts of animal cruelty.

Animal control officers seized 159 dogs from what they call the couple’s puppy mill operation. The dogs have been staying at the Everett Animal Shelter for nearly three weeks, and the cost of the constant care they’ve received have added up.

“There will be some dogs that will be determined that they need additional medical care or even surgery,” said Kate Reardon with the city of Everett.

The Larsens have been ordered to pay $72,000 — the cost of caring of the dogs for 30 days as determined by a judge.

If the couple fails to come up with the due amount, the judge could take the dogs away from the Larsen. However, it may still be weeks before the dogs are available for adoption as they are evidence in a criminal case.

“You know, we are in a holding pattern right now,” Reardon said.

Reardon said the city has received hundreds of requests for the dogs, which means if and when they are adopted out, the city will have to resort to a special process.

“In the past when we have adopted stray dogs, for example, if we have a real popular dog, we have resorted to a lottery system,” she said.

If you want to help the dogs seized, you can donate cash to pay for their medical and dental care.

The Everett shelter is also in need of wee pads, towels and blankets for bedding, as well as bleach and liquid laundry detergent. The shelter is always accepting applications for foster families.