CONROE, Texas – An animal cruelty investigation was launched after deputies received multiple reports of gruesome videos of dog attacks being posted on social media, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said 37 dogs and 14 puppies were rescued at a property, located in the 100 block of South Hall Drive. Some of the dogs are emaciated and have medical issues including anemia and lameness.
The investigation was prompted after callers stated that the videos show multiple dogs attacking a puppy. At this time, investigators do not have conclusive information on whether this was an intentional attack by the dog’s owner or an inter-dog aggression attack. Detectives were not able to confirm if the puppy in the video survived.
Detectives with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office District 4 are assisting sheriff’s deputies in the investigation and using all available resources.
SKY 2 chopper showed law enforcement walking around the outer premises of the residence.
The Houston SPCA also stepped in to work with local law enforcement.
Officials said all the dogs are now in the custody and care of the Houston SPCA.
According to Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, the homeowners involved in the incident fully cooperated with law enforcement.
Investigators determined that both homeowners are animal lovers and are deeply upset about what has transpired on their property.
Upon further investigation, deputies said it that neither homeowner was present at the residence when the attack took place.
KPRC2 Reporter Corley Peel spoke with Bryan Portillo who lives next door. His mother took the video of the dog attack and called 911.
”We dealt with it so long we’re finally done putting up with it,” said Portillo.
He said his family has seen other dog attacks at the home in the past.
“In the last 2 weeks, 3 times,” said Portillo.
Chief David Eason with Montgomery County Precinct 2 Constables said detectives have been called to the home before. “To my knowledge we did receive a prior call in 2022. Our investigators did come out here, it was unfounded at the time that there was cruelty to animals,” said Eason.
Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough said the county doesn’t have a limit for how many animals are allowed at a home.
“That’s a state issue and we cannot regulate that at the county level,” said Keough.
“I hope the dogs can find a safer home. I hope the conditions get better for the dogs,” said Portillo.
The Montgomery County Sheriffs office said no one has been charged with a crime.
“Our dedicated team of Detectives is assisting the Montgomery County Precinct 2 Constable Office Animal Cruelty Unit, which is taking over the investigation and is diligently working to gather all the necessary evidence and information to determine the cause and nature of the attack. We are doing everything we can to ensure the safety and well-being of all animals involved. We understand the concerns and emotions that this incident has stirred within the community, and we want to assure everyone that we are committed to a thorough and comprehensive investigation. We appreciate the support and cooperation of the community during this difficult time,” the Sheriff’s Office stated in the release.
Members of the public are encouraged to report any instances of animal cruelty by calling 713-869-7722.
KPRC 2 reporter Corley Peel will be gathering further information and videos of the incident at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m.