Texas: ASPCA helps rescue 150 dogs and cows suffering from abusive conditions

This week, at the request of Texas’ Midlothian Police Department, representatives from the ASPCA arrived in Ellis County, Texas, to assist in the rescue of nearly 150 dogs and cows from a property approximately 30 miles southwest of Dallas. When ASPCA investigators arrived on scene, they discovered more than 130 adult dogs and puppies living in various areas across the property in extreme heat with little access to fresh water and food.

Many of the dogs were contained in a shed-like structure with no light or air circulation, an internal temperature of over 110 degrees and elevated levels of ammonia. The dogs had soiled, matted coats, and some were found underweight and suffering from untreated medical issues that require immediate veterinary attention. Several cows who were also removed from the property had no access to proper food or water or adequate care for their hooves and showed signs of intestinal parasites.

Deceased dogs were also found on the property.

The ASPCA is assisting with operational planning and animal removal and transport, evidence collection and crime scene processing, investigative and legal support, forensics exams, and behavior evaluations. The animal welfare organization will be providing the animals removed from the property with specialized sheltering, medical care, and behavioral treatment and enrichment. The Tri-City Animal Shelter & Adoption Center is assisting with this case by providing short-term shelter for some of the animals until the ASPCA can relocate them to a recovery center for ongoing treatment and care.

The SPCA of Texas is also providing transport assistance to help safely relocate the animals.

“This is likely the worst animal neglect case I have seen. The City of Midlothian Animal Services team has worked hard to address this situation, but the number of animals in need of care greatly exceeds our capabilities,” said Midlothian Police Department Assistant Chief of Police Scott Brown.

“Our Animal Services team, along with our Criminal Investigations Division, was able to partner with the ASPCA and attain the resources that were necessary to alleviate our community of this nuisance. We simply could not have handled this case in a timely manner without the services of the ASPCA.”

Animal cruelty charges are pending based on evidence collected by the ASPCA and the Midlothian Police Department. The ASPCA is providing investigative and legal assistance to further support the investigation and prosecution and to ensure the best legal outcome for these animals.

For more information regarding the ASPCA, visit their website.