ACS employee fired after community outcry over video of alleged animal mistreatment

The video of “Hilo” the Alaskan Husky being dragged in the care of an ACS employee sparked outrage online and prompted the shelter to take action.

SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio Animal Care Services (ACS) released a statement in response to an incident caught on video involving the alleged inappropriate handling of a dog by an employee.

The video, shared on Facebook by volunteer-run animal rescue organization Saving San Antonio Dogs, shows an Alaskan Husky named Hilo being dragged by her neck by the employee. The video sparked public outcry, with community members calling on ACS to take action.

“No dog should experience such fear or mistreatment, especially one who is already in a vulnerable state,” the post reads.

📣🥳❤️❤️ RESCUE HOLD!! ❤️❤️👏🏼👏🏼🥳
**Once a dog is out of the shelter and safe, the rescue who saved them will reach out…

Posted by Saving San Antonio Dogs on Saturday, February 22, 2025

ACS quickly issued a response, saying the shelter has taken immediate action ensuring the dog was unharmed and terminating the employee involved.

“This incident should never have happened, and we are taking proactive steps to reinforce training and accountability measures,” said ACS Director Jon Gary.

ACS said Hilo was transported to a partner in order to help find her a forever home.

We are deeply concerned about a recent incident involving a temporary employee using inappropriate handling methods with…

Posted by City of San Antonio Animal Care Services on Sunday, February 23, 2025

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