3 months ago
At the request of Midlothian Police Department, the ASPCAs teams were on the ground late last week in Ellis County, Texas, to assist in the rescue of nearly 150 dogs And cows from a property southwest of Dallas.
When investigators arrived on scene, they discovered adult dogs and puppies living in various areas of the property in extreme heat with little access to fresh water or food. Many dogs were confined in a shed-like structure with no light or air circulation. There was an internal temperature of over 110 degrees and high levels of ammonia on site.
The dogs had dirty, matted coats, and some were underweight and had untreated medical problems requiring immediate veterinary attention. Several cows that were also removed from the property did not have access to adequate food and water or proper care for their hooves. They also showed signs of intestinal parasites. Unfortunately, deceased dogs have also been found on the property.
“The animals that the ASPCA helped save from this cruel situation were exposed to extreme heat and living in dangerous conditions where their basic needs were not met. Once we became aware of this situation, it was clear that immediate action was needed to get these dogs and cows to safety,” said Teresa Ladner, ASPCA Senior Director of Investigations.
“The ASPCA is proud to be in a position where we can collaborate with local agencies across the country to provide the resources and expertise needed to help protect at-risk animals, and we commend the ASPCA Police Department. Midlothian for recognizing the need for assistance and prioritizing. animal welfare in their community,” Ladner continued.
The ASPCA assisted with operational planning, animal removal and transportation, evidence collection, and crime scene processing, and will continue to assist with investigative and legal support, d forensic examinations and behavioral assessments. They also provide animals that have been removed from the property with specialized housing, medical care, and treatment and behavioral enrichment. The rescued dogs are now receiving care at an ASPCA recovery center.
The Tri-City Animal Shelter and Adoption Center also contributed to this case by providing short-term shelter to some animals until they could be transferred for continued treatment and care. Additionally, the SPCA from Texas also provided transportation assistance to help move animals safely.
“This is probably the worst case of animal neglect I have seen. The City of Midlothian Animal Services has worked hard to address this situation, but the number of animals needing care far exceeds our capacity,” said Midlothian Deputy Police Chief Scott Brown.
“Our animal services team, along with our criminal investigations division, were able to partner with the ASPCA and obtain the resources needed to relieve our community of this nuisance. We simply could not have handled this matter in a timely manner without the services of the ASPCA,” Brown said.
Animal cruelty charges are pending based on evidence collected by the ASPCA and the Midlothian Police Department. The ASPCA provides investigative and legal assistance to further support the investigation and prosecution and to ensure the best legal outcome for these animals.