BEXAR COUNTY, Texas – More than 80 dogs have already been removed from a property in Bexar County, but dozens remain as rescue groups try to find space for them.
Bexar County estimates about 130 dogs were on a Farm View Loop property visited by BCSO deputies last month. The county and private rescue operations have since removed many of the dogs, and are trying to find them new homes.
While the county doesn't have limits to how many dogs can be on a property, there may be issues with the state’s "licensed breeders law." So most of the dogs had to go.
"We have decided not to pursue any sort of legal action right now because she is being cooperative with the rescue groups and with animal control and with the Sheriff's Office which was investigating it," said county spokeswoman Laura Jesse.
The Bexar County Sheriff's Office did not find that any of the dogs had been abused or neglected.
However, Missy's Haven Canine Rescue president Michelle Holmes says the dogs they have taken off haven't been in the best condition. There haven’t been any illnesses, but she said about 90 percent need dental work, and they came in smelling like mold.
"The dogs came in, you wouldn't know if they were a mop or if they were a dog," she said.
Holmes has been spearheading the effort to remove the dogs by finding rescue operations and individuals in the community to take them. They're cleaning the dogs up, getting them medical care, and getting them used to being around people.
"We spend time just sitting (with) them having them come up on my porch or in one of the buildings that we have for them and just sit with them," Holmes said. "Just watch TV let them hear the sounds of everyday living."
But with so many dogs it has been hard to find enough space for all of them. She has 57 at her rescue alone.
"I go over every day and meet different groups and see which ones work for them," Holmes said. "Basically that's it. They're just not moving fast enough."
She thinks unless larger rescue organizations step in, some of these dogs will remain at the original home for at least a few more weeks.
The ones that have been taken out aren't ready for adoption yet, either. Holmes estimates it will be another month before they are socialized enough to go home with someone.