Garland Animal Services and police officers seized 64 cats Wednesday from a home in what officials said marks the largest rescue in city history, officials said in a statement.
Law enforcement officers and rescue crews from the department’s cruelty division executed a search and seizure warrant after receiving a tip from an out-of-state shelter.
The animals’ owner initially said she only had 20 animals in the home but was cooperative and voluntarily surrendered all 64 cats to animal services, according to the statement.
As of Thursday, no charges have been filed against the owner, Art Munoz, the city’s animal services director, said.
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“The conditions these animals were living in were deplorable,” the statement said. “Many of the cats appeared to be suffering from upper respiratory infections, and the majority were sick, with several in severely malnourished states.”
After the investigation is complete, animal services will work with police and the district attorney’s office to determine if charges will be filed.
The rescued cats are receiving urgent medical care and updates will be shared when more information becomes available.
Courtesy of Garland Animal Services
Officials said the property was also in poor condition and had dangerously high ammonia levels, requiring staff to wear respirators during the rescue.
A forensic veterinarian with the SPCA of Texas was at the scene to assess and document the condition of the cats, the statement said.
The rescued cats are receiving urgent medical care and updates will be shared when more information becomes available, according to the statement.
“Garland will not stand by while animals suffer,” Art Munoz, the city’s animal services director, said.
Courtesy of Garland Animal Services
“Garland will not stand by while animals suffer,” Munoz said. “Anyone committing cruelty will face the full force of the law. We are watching, and we will act.”
Officials urge residents to come forward and contact animal services at animalservices@garlandtx.gov if they suspect animal cruelty.
“This case came to light because someone chose to speak up,” the statement said. “Your voice matters and can save lives. If you see something, say something. All tips are confidential.”
Residents can also help by adopting or fostering animals and donating to animal services to cover medical care and daily needs, according to the statement.
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