"The Houston SPCA protects animals and makes neighborhoods safer. When animals are neglected, it can spread disease and signal other problems nearby. They help by rescuing animals from bad situations and finding them good homes."
The Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) protects animals across Harris County through rescue operations, investigations, and medical care. This organization works with law enforcement to save animals from dangerous situations. Recently, they rescued 17 dogs from deplorable conditions in Humble, working alongside Harris County Constable's Office deputies. The Houston SPCA operates an animal hospital that provides emergency medical treatment for rescued animals. They investigate reports of animal cruelty, neglect, and illegal breeding operations throughout our community. When animals suffer from malnutrition, untreated injuries, or cruel confinement, the Houston SPCA steps in to help. Their investigators have legal authority to remove animals from harmful situations. This matters because animal welfare connects to public health and neighborhood safety. Neglected animals can spread disease, and properties with animal cruelty often have other problems that affect nearby residents. The Houston SPCA also offers adoption services, giving rescued animals new homes with loving families. To get involved, you can report suspected animal cruelty by calling their hotline. You can also volunteer at their facilities, donate supplies, or adopt pets. Visit their website or call them directly to learn about volunteer opportunities, adoption events, and ways to support their mission of protecting animals in Harris County.
Seventeen dogs were rescued Thursday from a suspected breeding operation northeast of Houston, according to the Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA).
Houston SPCA investigators and deputies from the Harris County Precinct 1 Constable's Office rescued two puppies and 15 adult dogs late Thursday from a property in the 3000 block of Atascocita Plum Court in Humble, the organization said in a news release.
The Houston SPCA described the conditions as “deplorable.”
"Officials at the scene discovered 15 dogs suffering from varying degrees of emaciation, malnutrition, heat distress, untreated skin conditions and cruel confinement," the organization said.
One dog was reportedly found with a severe leg injury that "appeared to have gone untreated for an extended period" of time, the Houston SPCA said. Photos shared by the organization show dogs apparently being held in crates or chained outside in a backyard, exposed to the elements.
All the animals were transported to the Houston SPCA Animal Hospital, according to the organization.
Harris County Precinct 1 Constable Alan Rosen said Friday an investigation is ongoing and his office will present its findings to county prosecutors to determine if criminal charges are warranted.
"This is a tremendous number of dogs in distress, certainly one of the larger cases we have ever seen," Rosen said in a statement.
The Houston SPCA said a custody hearing for the dogs is "expected to take place next week."
The rescue of the dogs came two days after the constable's office reported that it removed a malnourished horse from a separate property in the Houston area in conjunction with the Houston SPCA.
