SPCA assists in the removal of neglected animals

KAUFMAN COUNTY – According to our news partner KETK, Kaufman County officials serving a warrant at a property discovered animals in wire cages, living without shelter and limited access to clean water. The SPCA team said the dogs and roosters were found in individual pens throughout the property with the area thick in mud and standing water. Officials also found evidence that the animals may have been used for fighting leading to the start of an investigation. Their owner relinquished custody of the animals at the scene, and the SPCA has since taken ownership, who are now working with the animals for possible rehabilitation.

“That resulted in the SPCA of Texas taking custody of 50 roosters, 43 hens, 34 adult dogs, and 10 puppies,” SPCA of Texas Vice President for Marketing and Communications, Maura Davies said.

According to officials, the owner of the animals could also face felony charges once the investigation is over.

“Most of the dogs were unlawfully restrained with weighted collars and heavy chains,” Davies said. They were allegedly chained out in the open without any access to shelter while others had access to barrels, tarps and wooden and metal roofing.

“Multiple blood-spattered treadmills, brake sticks that look like they have been used quite significantly, at least one scale, all different types of medications, etc.,” Davies said. Most of the dogs were underweight and have injuries consistent with dog fighting, authorities said.

“We are here to do everything we can to help those dogs get to a position where they may be able to be adopted,” Davies said.

In Texas, the Safe Outdoor Dogs Act, prohibits chaining dogs without adequate shelter in extreme conditions, including weather and standing water, or denying them access to drinkable water. Violations are punishable by a fine up to $500 for a first offense, with repeat offenders facing up to 180 days in jail and a fine up to $2,000.

To help support the SPCA of Texas and its efforts to help abused, neglected and homeless animals, visit http://www.spca.org/helptheanimals.