More than 20 dead animals, including approximately 15 horses and two primates, were discovered Friday during the execution of search and seizure warrants at the We Care Wildlife Sanctuary in Lakehills, according to a statement released by Bandera County Precinct 2 Constable Greg Spengler.
The animals were found in varying stages of decomposition during an investigation that began after the Constable’s Office received photographs showing severely underweight horses at the sanctuary, according to the statement.
The office said the photographs were presented as probable cause to obtain search and seizure warrants to investigate allegations that animals at the property had been abused, mistreated or neglected.
The Bandera County Sheriff’s Office assisted Spengler’s office with the operation.
Certified animal rescue responders from the American Humane Society, volunteer veterinarians and a specialized veterinary and animal care team from San Antonio Zoo were on site to conduct medical assessments and provide emergency care, according to officials.
The animals removed from the property included domestic, livestock and exotic species, including horses, goats, pigs, turtles, tortoises, pythons and various bird species.
More than 100 animals were transported to a secure temporary shelter, where they are receiving veterinary examinations, medical treatment and ongoing care, according to the statement.
“Our responders on scene documented critical welfare failures and severe neglect throughout the property,” said Cesar Perea, associate vice president of rescue at American Humane Society. “These animals were deprived of the most basic necessities — food, clean water, and standard husbandry — leaving several animals, including horses, dangerously emaciated and forced to survive in hazardous conditions.”
Perea said the organization's priority is ensuring the animals receive immediate veterinary care and appropriate permanent homes.
San Antonio Zoo President and CEO Tim Morrow said zoo veterinarians and technicians assisted American Humane Society during the operation.
“San Antonio Zoo is committed to the welfare of all animals, not just the ones in our care,” Morrow said.
The Constable’s Office said it requested American Humane Society's involvement because of the organization's expertise in animal cruelty investigations and the severity of the conditions documented at the sanctuary.
In addition to assisting with the investigation and evidence processing, American Humane Society responders coordinated the transportation of more than 100 animals to a secure temporary shelter facility.
The approximately 15 horses and two primates found dead are being transferred to a veterinary forensics laboratory for necropsies to determine their causes of death.
“Threats to animal welfare are taken seriously by our office, and we are committed to investigating these matters fully,” Spengler said. “Working together with our partners allows us to properly address these issues in our community.”
Spengler said the investigation remains active and that authorities will continue working with animal welfare organizations to ensure the surviving animals receive care.
We Care Wildlife Sanctuary describes itself as a nonprofit sanctuary that rescues, rehabilitates and provides permanent homes for exotic and domestic animals. Its website lists the sanctuary at 7688 PR 37 in Lakehills.
Officials say the investigation remains ongoing.
The Bulletin has reached out to We Care Wildlife Sanctuary for comment.
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