SPCA of Texas Rescues Seven Dogs From Alleged Neglect Near Wolfe City

Dogs Receiving Emergency Veterinary Care Following Hunt County Response

DALLAS AND HUNT COUNTY, TEXAS — On May 17, 2026, the SPCA of Texas Animal Cruelty Investigations (ACI) Unit responded alongside the Hunt County Sheriff’s Office to a complaint regarding multiple dogs reportedly being kept in poor condition near Wolfe City, Texas.

Upon arrival, investigators discovered six cur-type dogs confined in individual pens along the side of a farm-to-market road. The dogs showed signs of severe malnourishment and poor condition, including prominently visible ribs and hip bones in varying degrees of severity. Two of the dogs appeared nearly skeletal, including one dog that was weak and struggling to stand.

Investigators observed no apparent access to food for the dogs in the pens. The only water observed appeared to be contaminated rainwater. A seventh dog was also found near the pens tethered by a heavy chain. That dog had access to a small wooden dog house and a bowl of water and appeared to be in better condition than the other dogs.

The SPCA of Texas ACI Unit provided water to the dogs and assessed their conditions. One of the dogs was extremely lethargic and deteriorating rapidly. A forensic examination later determined the dog was approximately 2 to 3 years old and weighed only 19 pounds.

Due to the apparent critical condition of the six dogs in the pens, investigators conducted an exigent seizure because of concerns that the dogs would not survive without immediate care and to preserve evidence. The dogs were immediately transported to the SPCA of Texas’ Russell E. Dealey Animal Rescue Center for emergency veterinary treatment and forensic evaluations.

After the animals received urgent medical care, investigators sought and obtained a warrant the same day for the six dogs already seized, as well as the seventh dog remaining on the property.

On the morning of May 18, the SPCA of Texas ACI Unit and Hunt County Sheriff’s Office returned to the property and seized the remaining dog.

“These dogs appeared to be in critical condition and urgently needed medical attention,” said SPCA of Texas ACI Unit Chief Investigator Courtney Burns, CAWA. “Our veterinary and shelter teams immediately began providing supportive care, and we are grateful these animals are now safe and receiving the treatment they need thanks to the sharp eyes of a concerned citizen and the excellent work of the Hunt County Sheriff’s Office.”

The dogs are currently recovering and are in stable condition.

A civil custody hearing is scheduled for May 26th at 10 a.m. in the Hunt County Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 Courthouse, with Judge Kerry Crews presiding.

The SPCA of Texas continues to support the Hunt County Sheriff’s Office in the investigation and remains committed to protecting animals from cruelty and neglect. The investigation remains ongoing, and potential criminal charges are under review.

To report suspected animal cruelty in your community, please contact your local law enforcement or the SPCA of Texas ACI Unit at spca.org/abuse.

About SPCA of Texas

Founded in 1938, the SPCA of Texas is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal welfare organization that operates one shelter, one spay/neuter clinic, one mobile adoptions vehicle, and one animal rescue center, all located in Dallas. The organization also maintains a team of animal cruelty investigators who rescue hundreds of animals from cruelty each year in North Texas counties. The SPCA of Texas serves as an active resource center for services that bring people and animals together to enrich each other’s lives.

The SPCA of Texas is not affiliated with any other entity and does not receive general operating funds from the City of Dallas, the State of Texas, the federal government, or any national humane organization. The SPCA of Texas is dedicated to creating a brighter future for animals, people, and the community. To learn more, visit spca.org.

-30-

View Photos Here

All photos: courtesy SPCA of Texas