Houston SPCA, working alongside Harris County Constable Precinct 1, rescued three dogs found chained outdoors on a southeast Houston property on Sunday evening as temperatures dropped to a dangerous 30 degrees. The freezing conditions created a life-threatening situation for the animals, who were left exposed to the elements.
Authorities also discovered a fourth deceased dog on the property. An infrared thermometer recorded a surface temperature of 30 degrees at the time of the rescue, confirming the freezing conditions present.
Because of the dogs’ condition and the immediate, deadly risk posed by the cold, Harris County Constable Precinct 1 executed an exigent warrant. This allowed the Houston SPCA to remove the animals and transport them to the Houston SPCA medical center for urgent care.
The three surviving dogs are currently receiving medical evaluation and treatment. A necropsy performed Monday morning by a Houston SPCA veterinarian determined that exposure to the elements, along with body condition, was a contributing factor in the dog’s death.
The investigation remains ongoing. The Safe Outdoor Dogs Act prohibits the use of heavy chain restraints and requires dog owners to provide drinking water and adequate shelter from extreme temperatures. A court hearing is scheduled for next week, when a judge will determine custody of the three surviving dogs.
Houston SPCA continues to work in partnership with law enforcement to respond when animals face immediate danger and to protect their welfare during extreme weather.
