About 65 dogs in need of care rescued from ‘hoarding situation,’ Leander shelter says

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Texas Humane Heroes, along with Killeen Animal Services and a few other rescues, is working to find homes for about 65 dogs discovered in Coryell County on Friday.

Texas Humane Heroes said the pets came from a “hoarding situation” and were “living in severe neglect.” Many animals were malnourished and in need of care, according to the rescue.

“To go to a property that was so overgrown and hazardous and see so many dogs, both in kennels, trapped in little sheds, and also running loose at the same time — it was a lot,” said Christian Long, the director of communications at the Texas Humane Heroes.

Volunteers and staff worked to set up kennels and supplies for the dogs, and Texas Humane Heroes said it welcomed 16 of the dogs to its shelter, which still need medical care.

Long said the animals showed clear signs of neglect, including malnutrition, dental issues and matted fur.

“They had all been experiencing varying levels of neglect,” Long said. “Generally just a lot of mats and clumped up fur and unkept conditions.”

Long said staff will return next week to rescue more of the dogs. Coryell County is northwest of Temple, Texas.

“This is an all-hands-on-deck effort and a tremendous strain on our resources,” said Jayne Whisnant, chief development officer of Texas Humane Heroes. “We want to help as many of these animals as possible, but we need the community’s support to make it happen.”

Texas Human Heroes said the community can help by adopting or fostering a dog, which makes room for more animals at the shelter, or donate to support food and medical care. Visit its website for more details.

We reached out to the Coryell County Sheriff’s Office about possible charges, but haven’t heard back.

According to the Texas Penal Code, animal cruelty is a Class A misdemeanor and punishable by up to a year in jail, a $4,000 fine, or both.