Three fresh graves discovered recently on U.S. Forest Service land led to a forensic investigation of the site. The graves, in a canyon near Alessandro Trail and Bautista Canyon Road in the Anza area, turned out to contain canine remains, said John Ladley, Forest Service’s local recreation officer.

“When pets pass, public land may be a more attractive burial place,” said Ladley. “Nevertheless, pet memorials and burials are not permitted on public lands.”

Ladley said there has not been a decision made about what to do with the sites. He suggested a possibility is to remove the markers and leave the graves.