BALLINGER, TX — Humane World for Animals, formerly called the Humane Society of the United States, is assisting the Runnels County Sheriff’s Office with the rescue of over 60 dogs and puppies, as well as several chickens, horses, ducks and geese from an alleged neglect case in Ballinger, Texas.
Responders from Operation Kindness Humane Society and the Humane Society of Greater Kansas City are also assisting on scene.
Law enforcement served a search and seizure warrant on a residential property at approximately 7:30 a.m. Responders noted a strong ammonia smell from outside, while dogs perched on windowsills barking and clamoring at their rescuers. Inside, Humane World for Animals responders were met with an overwhelming scene: a chorus of barking from dogs roaming throughout the residence, with feces and urine coating much of the flooring and furniture.
Several of the dogs were suffering from skin issues characterized by missing fur, their skin raw and irritated. Many of the dogs were noticeably underweight, with protruding ribs and hip bones. Outdoors, several chickens, ducks and geese were found in small pens with inadequate protection from the elements, while two horses with overgrown hoofs roamed in the front yard.
Humane World for Animals assists the Runnels County Sheriff’s Office with the rescue of dozens of dogs and several ducks, chickens and horses from alleged neglect in Ballinger, Texas on Feb. 3, 2026.
Responders found a litter of weeks-old puppies in a dark closet without their mother. They found several other nursing puppies of various ages throughout the residence, including a young puppy who was shivering and cowering on the floor as other dogs trampled around her. Veterinarians noted a wound on her head, and that she was lethargic with pale gums, indicating anemia. Many of the dogs had scars or wounds, which veterinarians determined were most likely a result of fights over resources in severely overcrowded conditions.
“The moment you walk in, it hits you like a wall. Between the constant noise of barking, filth, odor and the chaos of dozens of dogs in overcrowded conditions, this scene is a complete sensory overload—I can only imagine the stress and suffering these animals have endured living like this,” said Alex Gamez, Texas state director, Humane World for Animals. “We're deeply grateful to the Runnels County Sheriff’s Office for intervening and inviting us in to help get these animals the care they need and deserve.”
Humane World for Animals assists the Runnels County Sheriff’s Office with the rescue of dozens of dogs and several ducks, chickens and horses from alleged neglect in Ballinger, Texas on Feb. 3, 2026.
"The Runnels County Sheriff's Office takes animal cruelty seriously. However, as a small rural county, our resources are limited, and this particular incident was far more than we could handle alone,” said Sheriff Carl Squyres. “Without the assistance of Humane World for Animals, the dogs, equine, and fowl that were seized would still be suffering. We are sincerely grateful to Humane World for Animals for their invaluable support and assistance in ensuring these animals received the care and protection they deserved.”
The animals are being removed from the property and transported to undisclosed locations to receive in-depth veterinary exams and much-needed care.
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