Over 200 Dogs Rescued from Massive Dogfighting Operation Across 27 Texas Properties

In one of the largest dogfighting seizures in Texas history, over 200 dogs and puppies were rescued from more than 27 properties across Northeast Texas on Tuesday, February 10. The multi-agency operation has given these innocent animals a second chance at the lives they deserve.

A Massive, Coordinated Rescue

The joint operation — involving Dallas Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, Dallas Animal Services, the ASPCA, Operation Kindness Humane Society, and Garland Animal Services — simultaneously executed 27 search warrants across Dallas, Ellis, Kaufman, and Smith counties.

What they found was heartbreaking: dogs tethered to heavy chains, housed in dilapidated, makeshift kennels, many bearing scars consistent with dogfighting.

Dogfighting paraphernalia — including weighted collars, medications, treadmills, and fighting pits — was discovered across the properties.

200+ Lives Saved

The majority of the rescued dogs were immediately transported to an ASPCA recovery center, where they are now receiving:

• Forensic veterinary exams to document their conditions
• Medical care for injuries and health issues
• Behavioral assessments to help them heal emotionally
• Ongoing enrichment to rebuild trust in humans
• Safe, warm shelter — many for the first time in their lives

'These Dogs Are Now Safe'

"This was an extensive and highly coordinated operation that reflects our commitment to holding offenders accountable and protecting the most vulnerable. Dogfighting is a violent felony offense tied to cruelty, illegal gambling, and other serious criminal activity. Thanks to the partnership of multiple agencies, more than 200 dogs are now safe and receiving the care they deserve."

— Dallas Police Chief Daniel C. Comeaux

Why This Matters

Despite being a felony in every state, dogfighting still occurs across America, resulting in the suffering of countless vulnerable animals. Dogfighting is not just animal cruelty — it's deeply connected to:

• Illegal gambling operations
• Violent crime
• Weapons trafficking
• Drug distribution
• Child abuse (children exposed to violence normalize cruelty)

This operation strikes a major blow against not just animal cruelty, but an entire network of criminal activity.

'The Power of True Collaboration'

Teresa Ladner, vice president of ASPCA Criminal Practice & Investigations, highlighted the dedication behind this rescue:

"Despite being a felony in every state, dogfighting still occurs all over the country, resulting in the suffering of countless vulnerable animals. The ASPCA is dedicated to putting an end to this horrific cycle of cruelty and bringing its victims to safety. We are deeply grateful to the agencies involved in this complex and multi-faceted rescue operation for pursuing justice for these animals and ensuring they receive the critical care they so urgently need."

— Teresa Ladner, ASPCA

Ed Jamison, CEO of Operation Kindness Humane Society, added:

"This operation demonstrates the power of true collaboration. We are honored to stand alongside these organizations in this historic effort. Our role in providing veterinary and forensic support reflects our shared commitment to accountability, kindness, and ensuring every animal receives the care they deserve."

— Ed Jamison, Operation Kindness Humane Society

The Road to Recovery

Many of the rescued dogs have never known kindness. They were born into cruelty, raised for violence, and tethered to chains their entire lives.

Now, for the first time, they're experiencing:

• Gentle human touch
• Soft bedding
• Regular meals
• Veterinary care
• Safety
• Hope

The ASPCA's specialized team will work patiently with each dog, helping them heal both physically and emotionally. Many will eventually be placed in loving forever homes — a future they never could have imagined just days ago.

Justice Will Be Pursued

Dallas Police Chief Comeaux made it clear: "We will continue working with prosecutors to pursue justice in these cases."

Dogfighting carries serious felony charges, including:

• Animal cruelty (up to 10 years in prison)
• Illegal gambling
• Possession of dogfighting paraphernalia
• Conspiracy charges

How You Can Help

The rescue was made possible thanks to the Lewyt Rescue Fund, generously established by the Alex and Elisabeth Lewyt Charitable Trust to support the ASPCA's anti-cruelty response efforts.

You can make a difference too:

• Learn the signs of dogfighting: Visit aspca.org/fightcruelty
• Report suspected cruelty: Call local law enforcement or animal control
• Support rescue organizations: The ASPCA, Operation Kindness, and local shelters
• Adopt, don't shop: Many rescued dogs become incredible companions
• Spread awareness: Share stories like this to educate others

Signs of Dogfighting

The ASPCA urges animal lovers to watch for these warning signs:

• Dogs with scars, especially on face, chest, and legs
• Dogs tethered on heavy chains (not normal leashes)
• Weighted collars
• Treadmills or unusual exercise equipment
• Multiple dogs with cropped ears
• Bloodstains in kennels or yards
• Frequent visitors at unusual hours
• Large amounts of cash changing hands

If you see something, say something. Your call could save lives.

From Chains to Champions

This story could have ended in tragedy. Instead, thanks to the courage and coordination of multiple agencies, it's ending in hope.

Over 200 dogs who knew only violence now have a chance at love. Puppies who were born into cruelty will grow up in kindness. Dogs who spent years on chains will soon feel grass beneath their paws and soft beds beneath their tired bodies.

Their journey won't be easy. Recovery from trauma takes time. But every single one of these dogs now has something they never had before:

A future worth living.

The Heroes Behind the Rescue

This operation involved:

• Dallas Police Department — investigation and search warrant execution
• Texas Department of Public Safety — law enforcement support
• ASPCA — animal removal, recovery center, forensic veterinary care
• Dallas Animal Services — animal handling and transport
• Operation Kindness Humane Society — veterinary and forensic support
• Garland Animal Services — animal removal assistance
• Lewyt Rescue Fund — financial support for rescue operations

To every officer, veterinarian, volunteer, and advocate who made this rescue possible: Thank you. You are heroes to 200+ innocent souls who can finally rest easy tonight. 🐾