Chickens, goats, horse, 39 dogs and goose seized in animal abuse case, Texas group says

Texas authorities seized 51 animals in a possible case of animal cruelty, officials say.

The animals lived in “deplorable conditions” at a home in Hitchcock, according to the Houston SPCA. Hitchcock is about 40 miles south of Houston.

Galveston County Sheriff Henry Trochesset said investigators received repeated complaints about a “horrendous” smell coming from the property before they went to seize the animals, the Houston Chronicle reported.

On Thursday, they seized 39 dogs as well as chickens, goats, a goose and horse, according to the SPCA. Photos showed the home appeared to be overrun with garbage and dirty cages.

Employees worked into the night examining the seized animals, according to the SPCA. They’re now receiving specialized veterinary treatment for dental disease and dermatitis, officials said.

The homeowner, who was at the house during the seizure, could be charged with animal neglect or cruelty charges, Trochesset told the Houston Chronicle.