The numbers are shocking: More than 100 animals, including 73 Irish Wolfhounds and other dogs, six tortoises, fresh water turtles, snakes, macaws, doves, cockatiels, and cats, were discovered in deplorable conditions on the property of a Santa Fe, Texas, home. Rather than a typical hoarding scenario, authorities believe it’s a case of dog-breeding run amok.
Some had no food for water. A few were dead. Most were matted and living in “poor environmental conditions,” according to the Houston SPCA, who aided in the rescue. Some were emaciated and covered in ticks.
Raequel Roberts, a spokeswoman for the Houston SPCA, told the Galveston Daily News that many of the animals are in bad shape. Most of the dogs and animals went to the shelter, where they are being cared for with the hope they’ll be adopted out once the legal issues are sorted and the court awards permanent custody.
Two men who lived in the home, one in his 60s and the other in his 70s, are being questioned by authorities. It appears they were breeding the Irish Wolfhounds but got overwhelmed; the dogs were kept in a large outside kennel, and authorities believe the men at one point had good intentions. Charges have not yet been filed. A neighbor tipped off police.
Irish Wolfhounds are one of the tallest breeds, and caring for more than 70 of them is straining the Houston SPCA. The group needs help. If you’d like to make a donation, you can do so on the website.
Via the Galveston Daily News
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