October 2009

On the afternoon of September 23, 2009, the Houston SPCA and local law enforcement officials responded to an anonymous tip which led them to a home in Northwest Houston. There they discovered over 1,000 animals living in deplorable conditions, cruelly confined, and suffering from many medical problems including dehydration, malnutrition, and maggot infestation. Multiple skeletal remains of approximately 100 to 300 animals were also found on the property.

All of the animals, including birds, exotics, small mammals, farm animals, wildlife and companion animals, were transported to the Houston SPCA where they received proper nutritional and medical attention.

One week after the rescue, the Houston SPCA was awarded custody of 1,007 out of 1,009 animals. The owner of the animals requested to have 2 dogs returned to him as he claimed they belonged to his children. The dogs will be taken to an outside veterinarian, spayed/neutered and will need to have a clean bill of health before they can be released to his ex-wife. 

As for the other remaining 1,007 animals, they will remain in the care of the Houston SPCA where they will continue to receive the proper medical attention, food, shelter, water and the loving care they were deprived of in their previous environment. The Houston SPCA is also working with their affiliate the Wildlife Rehab & Education Center and volunteer veterinarians to give these animals a second chance at life.

© Photo credited to Houston SPCA