SPCA seizes abused dogs from Van Zandt County property
Posted/updated on: October 15, 2025 at 8:56 am
VAN ZANDT COUNTY — The SPCA of Texas rescued 16 neglected dogs from a Van Zandt County property last week after finding them living in extreme inhumane conditions. According to our news partner KETK, SPCA of Texas Animal Cruelty Investigations (ACI) Unit responded to an anonymous request for a welfare check. They arrived at the property Oct. 6. Investigators found the dogs in severe neglect and worked to obtain a seizure warrant for the animals, which they executed the next day.
A press release from SPCA of Tyler said, “A thorough inspection found filthy raised kennels, many without adequate shelter; rough, uneven flooring beneath them; padlocks on every kennel; dirty water contaminated with feces; and live maggots swarming the area beneath the kennels.”
Members of the ACI unit found the animals were mostly Yorkshire terriers, dachshunds and chihuahuas. At least two of the dogs were pregnant. The dogs owner did not live on the property.
All of the dogs were seized and sent to SPCA of Texas in Dallas for evaluation and treatment. A civil custody hearing will take place on Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the Van Zandt County Justice of the Peace Precinct 4 Courthouse in Ben Wheeler.
