13 dogs from Comanche County now at Austin Humane Society after rescue effort

AUSTIN, Texas - Over a dozen dogs are now in the hands of the Austin Humane Society after a coordinated rescue effort in North Texas.

AHS says it worked with various animal welfare groups to rescue over 50 dogs living on a single property in Comanche County, which is located about 150 miles southwest of Dallas.

The dogs, who appear to be Chihuahua mixes between 10 weeks and six years old, had been living outdoors or in vehicles on the property. The dogs were suffering from flea infestations and some minor skin issues but otherwise appear healthy, says AHS.

"The dogs and the individual were living outside, primarily in a vehicle because the condition in the house was so bad," said Sarah Hammel, director of communications for the Austin Humane Society. "Probably started with a couple of pet dogs that were not spayed and neutered, and it just really kind of snowballed out of control."

AHS took in 13 of the dogs and transferred them to its shelter in Austin on Sunday afternoon. The dogs are currently undergoing medical evaluations.

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"They’re doing pretty good. Our volunteers are so patient when we get shy little dogs, and they'll just sit at the edge of their kennel offering them treats," said Hammel. "To just kind of show them that they're safe." 

This latest rescue reflects a much larger problem in Texas, and underscores the importance of getting your pet spayed or neutered.

"We get calls in these kinds of cases, especially from our more rural neighbors, at least a few times a year, if not more," said Hammel. "It takes a village to help homeless animals across Texas."

The 13 dogs will be available for adoption at AHS as soon as Monday afternoon. Those interested can contact AHS through its website. The adult dogs are $100 to adopt and puppies are $300.

All the dogs will be spayed or neutered, microchipped, treated for parasites and receive age-appropriate vaccinations before they go to their new homes. 

AHS is looking for adopters and donations to support their care.