Breaking! Nearly 200 Cats, Kittens & Several Dogs Rescued In Large-Scale Alleged Neglect Situation In Texas

The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is assisting the City of Killeen, Texas, in removing nearly 200 cats, kittens and several dogs from a large-scale alleged neglect situation.

Local authorities served search and seizure warrants on a 1,800-square-foot residential property at approximately 7 a.m. on June 14th. The animals appeared to suffer from a lack of veterinary care and were living in conditions typically seen in severe neglect situations. Several of them were nursing mothers with kittens, and a number of the animals were in need of urgent medical assistance and were immediately removed from the property.

HSUS’ Animal Rescue Team is transporting the rescued animals to a temporary emergency shelter in an undisclosed location. The animals are being examined by Dr. Melinda Merck, a veterinary forensic consultant from Austin and Dr. Cate McManus from Irving Animal Services. The animals are receiving necessary immediate medical treatment. RedRover responders are assisting in the caretaking of the animals at the temporary shelter location, and Emancipet is donating veterinary technician services.

“It is heartbreaking to see hundreds of gentle cats and kittens suffering in poor conditions,” said Nikki Prather, Texas state director for the HSUS in a statement. “We are thankful to the City of Killeen for answering the call to help these animals.”

The assistance of the HSUS was requested by the City of Killeen after concerns about the welfare of the animals on the property were raised.

“We are happy to be able to work with partners to assist these animals and provide them with a chance to get the care they need,” said Tammy Roberts, Killeen Animal Services manager. “We hope these animals will be adopted into loving homes once their immediate needs are addressed. The property owners have been cooperative—we often see in similar situations that it appears those responsible for the care of a high quantity of animals become overwhelmed.”

“No animal should ever be deprived of proper veterinary care or forced to suffer in horrible conditions like what our rescue team saw today,” said Kitty Block, President and CEO of HSUS “We are committed to doing all that we can to get these cats and dogs the expert care they so desperately need. We encourage the public to contact authorities if they ever suspect that animals are in trouble or in need of intervention. Sadly, this story is not unique, but we are certain that these cats and dogs now have a chance at a better life.”

Thanks to HSUS’s long-time partner, GreaterGood.org for much-needed donations of supplies for the animals, and to Alex and Elisabeth Lewyt Charitable Trust for offering to match a generous portion of donations received by other contributors to support the care needed for these rescued animals.